April 2004
WPG challenges the industry
The Institute's Women in Plumbing Group (WPG) is challenging the industry to clean up its image, where women are concerned. All to often inappropriate material is on display (including pornography) in the working environment.Kathryn Hopkins-Morgan, from SummitSkills, made the following comment at a recent meeting of the Group: "This type of attitude could be a barrier to women considering a career in the industry. I have visited some organisations that have been too embarrassed to show me training rooms because of 'Glamour' pictures plastered on the walls. It can be very intimidating for women new to the trade and does nothing to promote professionalism.
Geoff Marsh, Director Industry Liaison for the IoP, is in full agreement. "Action must be taken to stamp out this attitude to women, there is no place for it in our industry."
Carol Cannavan, Secretary of the WPG said she had received various complaints from women who are either qualified or on plumbing courses, who have been offended by sexist remarks or material. Information gathered at the WPG event, which took place at the Royal Institute of British Architects in October last year, showed that a high percentage of women who attended had experienced gender related problems in the work place.
ENDS (210 WORDS)
April 2004
