Industry group Women in Nuclear (WiN) has launched a Cumbrian branch.

This will be dedicated to getting more women to consider a career in nuclear and support those already working in this sector.

An introductory session was held at Westlakes Science Park, Moor Row, to encourage volunteers and help get a better understanding of the specific needs, priorities and ideas of people in Cumbria.

Natalie Deane lives in Whitehaven and is a founding member of the WiN Cumbria team. She said: “I moved to Cumbria two-and-a-half years ago, and it has been a real goal of mine to establish an inclusive women’s network to not only encourage more diversity within nuclear, but to ensure that we are all connected between various networks and organisations.

“It turns out WiN UK had the same goal, so I’m delighted to be part of their local team.

“The overwhelming response to our first event shows that there is a real appetite for collaboration in this area. We had people at various stages of their career, from a broad range of organisations and disciplines, all sharing ideas and experiences.

“There is a unique concentration of nuclear capability in Cumbria and by strengthening links here, WiN UK can help the local industry can reach its full potential by maximising the talents of all.”

Gemma Goulding, from Seascale, attended the event. She said: “As a project engineer, I was keen to learn more about the Women in Nuclear concept.

“I didn’t expect to meet so many people from across the industry so it was a great networking opportunity. My daughter is a civil engineering apprentice and I’m keen for her to have access to female role models within the industry.

"I think WiN Cumbria will give us both a valuable support network with mentoring opportunities as we progresses through our careers.”

Only 19 per cent of the UK’s nuclear industry workforce is female and this number declines significantly at senior levels.

For more information email wincumbria@gmail.com.