The Relevance of Equality and Diversity in Trade Roles

It is obvious that views in society have changed significantly in the last 35 years, particularly in the last decade. A poll conducted by Sky News in 2019 revealed that in 1984, 42 per cent of people felt that the role of “breadwinner” should be filled by men, while women should take the role of “homemaker”. 35 years later, this idea had radically shifted — only eight per cent of people polled accepted these as the set roles for men and women.

By all means, gender is only one part of the topic of equality and diversity. When it comes to “breadwinners”, the idea of equality and diversity supports a huge number of people. From age to disability, race to religion, these personal factors should not get in the way of pursuing a career. In terms of trade roles, we’re seeing a fantastic response from employers to ensure equality and diversity is honoured in the workplace. Let’s take a look at some of the best examples across a number of industries.

Production Manager by 22

Emily Burridge’s success was reported early in 2019, by the BBC . Burridge had entered into the world of construction via an apprenticeship scheme. But this isn’t just an example of a woman getting her foot in the door to a stereotypically male-orientated industry. Burridge hasn’t just gotten into the sector — she’s excelled, making her a brilliant example of why the industry must recognise the importance of equality and diversity.

Having worked on 25 quarries, Burridge is a technical production manager at the age of 22. Not only is she representing the women in a male-dominated sector, she’s also championing the case for age equality and diversity too. Though she is only in her early twenties, Burridge replaced a man who was of retirement age. Even though her staff are mostly older men, Burridge has had no problem in integrating with and leading her staff.

2019 Apprentice of the Year

In addition , Todd Scanlon was chosen as 2019 “UK’s Best Apprentice” — a reputable award from On The Tools. Thirty-year-old Scanlon has Down’s Syndrome, but this has proven to be no obstacle for him on his journey to forge a career. Scanlon has always wanted to work in scaffolding, and after talking to a local company and showing his determination, Scanlon has not only become a permanent worker on their team but has been voted the UK’s best apprentice 2019.

Scanlon’s boss commented that he is a valued member of the team — hard-working, enthusiastic, polite, and that the customers love him. Taking Scanlon on as a member of the team wasn’t any cause for concern for Coles Scaffolding, and the apprentice has more than proven his skill and willingness to learn over and over again. What more could an employer ask for from his workforce?

“I think it’s mainly because it is thought people with a disability shouldn’t be in our industry,” Martyn Coles, Scanlon’s employer, said of the win. “He’s just shown that you can do it with the right guidance. He’s just a likeable guy.”

A move within industries

In 2020, we’re sure to witness further examples of diversity within trade roles. And this, says Richard Walker from waste management experts Skip Hire, is exactly what these industries need:

"For too many years the industry has suffered with a negative perception and reputation creating a stigma that has acted as a barrier to entry to a more diverse talent pool of workers. As innovation and technology play its part in modernising ways of working in the sector, together with schemes such as apprenticeships, we’re not only seeing a more diverse workplace, but a more talented, skilled, and varied workforce.”

The examples above are just a small number of instances that prove the importance of supporting diversity and equality in trade roles. No doubt we’ll see even more throughout 2020!