‘The anxieties just lift’: why domestic abuse refuges are turning to female tradespeople

Domestic abuse refuges, like those run by the charity Refuge, are increasingly seeking female tradespeople for maintenance and repairs. The presence of male contractors can be distressing for survivors and trigger past traumas, requiring escorts and resident notifications. While women remain underrepresented in the trades, comprising only about 4% of the workforce, their numbers are growing, with a 73% increase in construction and engineering apprenticeships between 2019 and 2022. Refuge is partnering with TaskHer, an online directory of tradeswomen, to find female contractors. Employing tradeswomen creates a more comfortable and therapeutically beneficial environment for residents, easing anxieties and promoting a sense of safety in their temporary homes.

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