Nottingham apprentice honoured with Community Award in Screwfix national final

Leanne Dainty has been recognised for her dedication to work within the local community in the Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2019 final.

Nottingham plumbing apprentice, Leanne Dainty, 28, has received the first ever community award in the final of Screwfix’s Trade Apprentice 2019 competition.

As well as working towards her Level 3 Plumbing and Heating qualification at Nottingham College, Leanne has given up her own time to complete work at a women’s refuge charity, helping maintain the premises. Leanne had to borrow all the tools from her employer to carry out the projects in properties for vulnerable women. It is because of this Screwfix honoured Leanne with a community award of £1,000 to buy everything she needs to continue making a difference.

During the national final at Google HQ in London, Leanne competed in a series of tasks against nine other finalists. The tasks included a panel interview with judges from across the construction industry. It was clear to everyone what a role model Leanne is, not only to women entering the plumbing and heating sector, but also to inspire youngsters to go the extra mile for others in the community.

Leanne said: “Taking part in the Screwfix Trade Apprentice competition has been such an amazing experience. I’ve enjoyed it all and I am honoured to walk away with this award. The money will really help me to support the women I’ve been working with and I hope it helps me to make a real difference to their lives.”

Caroline Welsh, Director of Brand and Marketing at Screwfix, said: “Screwfix Trade Apprentice is now in its fifth year and we were truly blown away by the attitude, commitment and passion shown by all of our finalists.

“Apprentices form a vital part of the trade and are invaluable to the UK economy, providing a pipeline of fresh talent and innovative ideas. Each year we see many exceptional entries and it was a privilege to be able to spend time with the finalists at this year’s final.

“Leanne’s compassion really impressed us. The work she’s been doing to support vulnerable women in her local community was truly inspiring and I hope the funds awarded will help her to make even more of a difference. I look forward to watching Leanne develop and wish her all the very best!”

Nick Murphy, Chief Executive at Nottingham City Homes, said: “Apprentices like Leanne are so important to the future of our business and they deserve to be celebrated. I am so proud of Leanne and all the work that she does, it’s great to see she has been recognised nationally in this way.”

To find out more you can visit Screwfix stores, or go to www.screwfix.com/sfta.