As with the vast majority of events, this month’s Women Installers Together conference was postponed until 2021. But lockdown hasn’t meant slowing down for the organiser, Stopcocks Group.
Top of the list of priorities has been making progress with its National Register of Tradeswomen, for which it is seeking funds. Mica May from Stopcocks Group explains more: “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 up and running quickly as a not for profit. Some people just don’t feel safe having tradesmen in their homes, especially if they have/are experiencing domestic violence or escaping from it.
“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).
“We are looking for funds to build the technology. We are looking for sponsors to help set this up. We have got great deals with tech suppliers so the costs aren’t massive. We’re going to use a robust platform that doesn’t just list, but verifies all the tradeswomen as well as a householder facing website to generate the work.
“Now is the time for women plumbers, heating engineers and all other women in skilled trades to contact us and express your interest.
“We need £15,000 to press the go button on the tech. We’re asking several companies to come together to support the set up and contribute to the venture going forward; sponsors giving £2,500 or more will receive free advertising on the website for the first year.”
If you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, or wish to pass on ideas of where funds could be accessed, contact [email protected]
