B&Q launches campaign to help tackle gender imbalance in trade sector
TradePoint, the trade brand of home improvement retailer B&Q, has launched ‘Do The Lift Thing’ campaign to shine a spotlight on tradeswomen who are breaking down barriers within their industry.
The campaign aims to highlight a new movement of women in trades while raising awareness of the barriers that prevent more girls and women from entering the sector.
In collaboration with acclaimed photographer Sane Seven, the brand is showcasing 10 inspiring tradeswomen who serve as role models.
The initiative follows research by B&Q which revealed that three-quarters of girls leaving school were unaware of any women working in the trade sector. The study also found that a lack of female role models is a significant barrier to more girls and women pursuing careers in trades.
B&Q director Amelie Gallichan-Todd, said: “With only 2% of trade professionals being women, B&Q is committed to tackling this gender imbalance and has pledged £1 million to fund trade apprentices across a variety of sectors, including carpentry, plumbing, painting and decorating – amongst others.
“I’m a firm believer that ‘you cannot be what you cannot see’ and so through the ‘Do the lift thing’ campaign, we’re elevating more role models for girls and women to look up to in the trade sector.
“By showcasing successful women in these roles, we hope to inspire the next generation to pursue careers in trades, challenging stereotypes and changing perceptions.”