Domestic abuse refuges in the UK, particularly those run by the charity Refuge, face significant challenges due to the predominance of a male workforce in trades such as plumbing and electrical work. Lisa Cantwell-Hope, who oversees property services for Refuge, highlights that the presence of male workers can be distressing for survivors, often triggering past traumas. To ensure the comfort of residents, male contractors require an escort, and residents are informed in advance of any male presence, complicating logistics and prolonging the time needed for maintenance and repairs.

Despite a recent increase in tradeswomen, with statistics from the Office for National Statistics revealing a 41% growth since 2006, women still represent only about 4% of the total workforce in trades. The West Midlands leads the regions in the number of female tradespeople, comprising 4.4% of all trades professionals, suggesting that while there has been progress, the industry remains heavily male-dominated. This situation emphasizes the urgent need for a more inclusive approach in trades to better support vulnerable populations.

With the increasing recognition of the unique challenges faced by domestic abuse survivors, the shift towards hiring female tradespeople not only fosters a safer environment but also serves as a potential for broader changes in the trades industry. It underlines the importance of gender representation in all fields, particularly those that directly impact the well-being of individuals. Advocates argue that building an inclusive workforce is essential for changing perceptions and experiences in traditionally male-dominated sectors, thereby promoting equality and safety for all.