Women into public life

A new initiative to encourage more women to apply for key roles in Welsh public life has been launched at the Senedd.

The joint venture between Chwarae Teg, the economic development organisation for women, and Cardiff Business School was announced by Presiding Officer Rosemary Butler AM as part of her Women in Public Life campaign.

The programme will provide mentoring, role-shadowing and training opportunities for women, helping them to build the skills needed to successfully enter public life.

"There are hundreds of women across Wales who would make fantastic school governors, magistrates or valued members of other public bodies," said Dame Rosemary. "And many of them look at these public bodies and are put off when they see it remains a man's world.

"I am committed to changing this through my Women in Public Life campaign and have already launched the Women in Public Life Portal, which provides information about how to get involved in public office, the latest vacancies and training opportunities."

Sarah Lethbridge, Cardiff Business School said: "As part of our ongoing commitment to making sure that our research positively benefits the wider Welsh community, the Business School is proud to help Chwarae Teg to put together an innovative development programme for the successful mentees. This programme will provide them with the business knowledge and confidence they need in order to play a proactive and productive role in public life."

Anyone wishing to get involved in the scheme, as a mentor or mentee, should contact Emma Tamplin at Chwarae Teg, at emma.tamplin@chwaraeteg.com. More information about the scheme will be available soon.