Essential Work For Tradespeople Or A Risk?
Demand for tradespeople has surged since the first lockdown ended.
British van drivers – many of you are still out on the road, despite lockdown.
Why?
But now, a debate has sparked: should the government allow this during a national lockdown?
SAGE Calls For Limits On Tradespeople Work
SAGE, the government advisory group, has a strong opinion.
They’ve urged officials to restrict to only “critical” work.
Or work that can’t be delayed due to health and safety.
Currently, most trades are still running – with a few changes.
Workers wear masks indoors and maintain social distance.
But, they face no limits on the type of jobs they take on.
The Unfairness Factor: Who’s Really Left Out?
And here’s a twist:
The Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed, an industry group, is speaking up.
Their message?
Stopping tradespeople would be unfair.
Did you know?
Approximately 1.5 million tradespeople, however, were excluded from financial support.
Some, for instance, were short-term contractors.
Others, meanwhile, worked on zero or low-hours contracts with limited companies.
In their situation, every job truly matters, and every pound absolutely counts.
Why Restrictions Could Be Devastating For Tradespeople
Imagine the government tells you that you can’t work, yet you still don’t qualify for support.
That’s the reality for many. And restrictions on trades could be disastrous.
Unlike office jobs, they can’t “work from home.” Their work is hands-on.
And let’s be honest:
The rules, however, feel confusing and inconsistent.
For instance, nurseries and churches allow large gatherings.
Yet, at the same time, tradespeople – who perform critical services – face restrictions.
Where’s the consistency?
Hope Ahead: Vaccines And Lower COVID Cases
Many trades include essential work, like heating, plumbing, or other vital services.
They’re often called to fix things that simply can’t wait.
And here’s to hoping:
With the rapid vaccination rollout, we might see an end in sight.
COVID cases are dropping. We’re moving forward.
For the tradespeople of the UK, let’s hope work can continue.
Maybe not “as usual,” but enough to keep their families fed and secure.
