Support needed for National Register of Tradeswomen

In common with many other events, the Women Installers Together conference, due to take place earlier this month (July), was cancelled. But organisers Stopcocks Group have been busy during the COVID-19 pandemic looking at some of its other priorities.

Top of its agenda is its National Register of Tradeswomen, for which the organisation is seeking funds. Organiser Mica May says: “Due to the disturbing and emerging situations of vulnerable women that have been reported in the news, it seems that it is more important now than ever that we get the National Register of Tradeswomen we’ve been planning up and running quickly as not for profit.

“Some people just don’t feel safe having tradesmen in their homes, especially if they have experienced domestic violence or are escaping from it.”

The aim is to create a robust platform that lists and verifies tradeswomen, as well as a householder-facing website to generate the work, and Stopcocks is appealing for funds to build the technology. “We are looking for sponsors to help set this up,” says Mica. “We have got great deals with tech suppliers so the costs aren’t massive. Now is the time for women plumbers, heating engineers and all other women in skilled trades to contact us and express your interest.

“We have received some excellent pro bono support from Addleshaw Goddard LLP, who are drawing up our legal paperwork and helping us to set up the CIC (Community Interest Company).”

The organisation says it needs £15,000 to get the register off the ground. “We’re asking several companies to come together to support the set up and contribute to the venture going forward,” Mica adds.

For more information, email mica@stopcocks.uk