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We’ve created a new infographic that takes a look at the amount of Women working in skilled trades, and how the average Brit feels about hiring a female tradesperson over a male one. Only 8% of tradespeople are Women despite over 100,000 current UK vacancies available in the industry. 29% of UK residents would prefer […]
Hello crafty sorts, practical chaps and hands-on heroines, welcome to a fresh fortnight of DIY inspiration from Able Skills. Whether you’re honing your trade or simply having some fun, these projects will keep you busy and creative this June. Why not create… An upright herb garden? A tetrahedral kite? A hammock stand? 1. Upright herb […]
Whether you’re a plumber, plasterer, carpenter or spark, leaving your job to become a self employed is a big step – and one fraught with uncertainty. Once you quit your job, there’s no safety net. You’ll need to get your business up and running as soon as possible, and start growing your client base post […]
Discover cultural houses from around the world. This Infographic shows it all from Musgum Mud to Toba Batak and how each is made. View Interactive Version (via Able Skills ).
Discover how some of the world’s most amazing ancient structures were built, including the Great Pyramids of Giza in Egypt and the famous Greek Parthenon. View Interactive Version (via Able Skills ).
Construction growth appears to be bouncing back following an uncertain period in March and April 2015, most likely the result of pre-election jitters. The after effects of May 2015’s General Election have seen construction getting back on track, with confidence high amongst construction buyers. Despite low figures compared to February 2015, which saw the Markit/CIPS […]
Not sure what to do with your afternoon off? Whether you’re looking for a quick DIY job, or a long term project, we’ve collected a great selection of projects for you to make and do this summer. Whether you’re a big BBQ fan or like to be clever and electrical, here are some fun ideas you can […]
Becoming self employed can be a daunting prospect. Will you be able to grow your client base? Will you be able to develop a good reputation in your area? What will you be able to bring home in terms of salary? When you’re just starting out, your professional life can feel very uncertain. But, with a […]
It’s as true for trades as it is for any line of work: you can never truly appreciate a profession until you’ve tried your hand at it yourself. A task a seasoned professional makes look blissfully easy can take novices years to master. This month, Hot Courses caught up with two experienced members of the Able Skills […]
The collapse of GB Building has left subcontractors £39 million out of pocket, according to the administrator’s report published two months after the company’s crash in March 2015. Administrators BDO have also suggested that affected subcontractors are extremely unlikely to ever see a penny of their money paid back. Domino debts Following the collapse of GB Buildings, subcontractors […]
Itching to get stuck into a fresh project? Your timing couldn’t be better! The sun’s out and summer is coming. To celebrate, we’ve shared some brilliant summer DIY ideas; from garden toys and outdoor hobbies to essentials for opening a nice cold beer. Why not make… A zipwire for your garden? A honey beehive? A beautifully simple […]
You’re doing really well as a sole trader. You’re turning over more profit every month, you’re taking on more staff, you’re in more demand than ever before – but your tax bill (especially your national insurance contributions) are creeping up and up. You may also be worried about impressive ever-bigger clients, or about being liable for company debts. […]
