4 in 5 UK electricians don't feel confident discussing sustainability

SUSTAINABILITY is a growing concern for customers when hiring tradespeople, but 80% UK electricians are unaware how to make their work more eco-friendly.  A new study by ElectricalDirect, the specialist retailer of electrical products, found that 25% of clients are now more eco-conscious than they used to be, and over the last year, 22% of electricians have been directly asked about their environmental impact.  However, the vast majority of workers are not sure how to become more sustainable and 82% say they don't feel confident discussing the topic with customers.

This lack of awareness could explain why so few electricians actively try to reduce their impact on the planet. Only 18% say they consciously try to work sustainably. For some, finances are a major factor. 17% say they can't afford to become more eco-friendly due to the extra costs involved.  Nevertheless, with many customers now favouring tradespeople with green credentials, electricians could potentially start to miss out on work if they don't make changes. 37% Brits try to only use companies who are socially and environmentally responsible, so there's a strong business case for sustainability, on top of the wider benefits.  To help tradespeople who are looking to become more environmentally friendly, ElectricalDirect has partnered with William Hobbs, sustainability and recycling expert at MyJobQuote.co.uk, to provide some expert tips.

Tips:-

1. Source local parts... To reduce your carbon footprint, look for parts and materials produced and sold closer to home.

2. Wherever possible, recycle... Instead of throwing waste away, consider how to reuse or repurpose it. If it cannot be reused, recycle as much as possible so it doesn't end up in landfill.

3. Reduce plastic and chemical use… Making simple, but practical swaps on small items you use daily can reduce your overall environmental impact without costing too much.

Dominick Sandford, Managing Director at ElectricalDirect, said:- "Sustainability has been a hot topic for a number of years, and that's certainly not going to change anytime soon, so it's no surprise that customers are now considering the environmental impact of any work they have done in their homes. In order to meet these changing requirements, electricians should review their materials, equipment and methods to see how they can become a bit greener, as doing so can benefit both their business and the planet."

For more expert advice on how tradespeople can reduce their environmental impact, visit:- ElectricalDirect.Co.UK.
 

Men's Health Week: A quarter of UK men have never checked themselves for testicular cancer

THIS week is Men's Health Week, and research has found that, shockingly, 26% of UK males have never checked themselves for signs of testicular cancer, while a further 15% only check themselves once a year or less.

A new study, commissioned by health experts at Livi, the online GP service, has found that surprising numbers of men are not checking themselves for testicular cancer, despite it becoming increasingly common, with an increase of 24% since the 90s1.

Younger generations appear to be significantly less likely to check their testicles, with 46% of 18 to 24 year olds admitting that they had never checked themselves for cancer. This is particularly concerning as testicular cancer is the most common form of cancer amongst young men, particularly those in their early 30's2.

However, older generations appeared to be significantly more likely to check themselves. Those aged 25 to 34 years old were found to be the most likely, with only 21% stating they had never checked their testicles.

The survey also revealed which signs of the cancer men are most likely to recognise, with 77% of men recognising lumps as a symptom, but only a 34% identifying heaviness in the scrotum and a difference in appearance between the testicles (33%) as potential signs.

The 5 most recognisable signs of testicular cancer:-

1. Lumps - 77% knew this was a sign.

2. Enlargement of testicles - 58%.

3. Pain or discomfort in testicles - 46%.

4. Heaviness in scrotum - 34%.

5. Difference in appearance between testicles - 33%.

Additionally, many men incorrectly identified unrelated symptoms as signs of cancer, including:- sexual impotence (18%) and discomfort in the penis (21%).

Dr Rhianna McClymont, Lead GP at Livi, provides a step by step guide for checking for signs of testicular cancer:-

► The best time to check yourself is during, or after a warm bath or shower. This helps to relax the testicles and make them easier for you to examine.

► Hold your testicle in your palm and gently examine each 1 with your thumb and forefinger.

► You're looking for any type of abnormality, or difference in feel. Your testicles should feel smooth and firm, but not hard.

► Make sure you check yourself regularly and if you notice any lumps, or hardness in the testicles, get yourself checked by a medical professional as soon as possible.

Dr. McClymont adds:- "Testicular cancer, like any form of cancer, can strike at any age, but it's more common in younger people, so we recommend beginning checks in puberty. If you notice any lumps or difference in the feel of your testicles, then it's important to speak to a doctor to get checked out immediately. These symptoms are not a guarantee you have cancer, but they can be indicators, so it's always vital to see a medical professional if you spot any signs."

For more information on how to spot testicular cancer, visit:- Livi.Co.UK.