Traditional recruitment methods are reinforcing gender stereotypes in industries such as construction, engineering, plumbing, technology and childcare, and are doing nothing to aid Britain’s skills shortage, according to a report from the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC).

The study revealed that only 1% of people working in construction occupations are female, while women fill almost all jobs in childcare. Yet both industries suffer from acute skills shortages, suggesting a clear link between gender segregation and difficulties in recruiting skilled staff.

Pat Turrell, careers co-ordinator for Jive Partners, a project aimed at breaking down gender segregation, said recruiters had a role to play in making clients aware of the issues. “We need to raise awareness among both employers and candidates that there are jobs available for women in the engineering and construction sectors,” she said.