In answer to a recent question to the Scottish Government from Borders MSP Rachael Hamilton, it has been revealed that there are as few as 15 female butchers across Scotland.
Quality Meat Scotland (QMS), who estimated the number of female butchers in Scotland to be between 15 and 20, are working to establish a more accurate figure by surveying all independent butchers in Scotland.
Alongside other stakeholders, QMS are encouraging careers in the butchery sector as it struggles with staffing shortages. Scottish abattoirs have suffered particularly badly from labour shortages in recent months. However, the UK Government has stepped in to provide emergency visas for butchers from overseas to provide a short-term solution to the problem.
Ms Hamilton has previously advocated for more female entrants in to predominantly male industries such as butchery.
Commenting, Conservative MSP for Ettrick, Roxburgh & Berwickshire Rachael Hamilton said:
“It is no surprise to hear that there are so few female butchers in the country. The Scottish Government must do more to encourage young women to consider careers in traditional trades like butchery.
“Barriers for young women considering these careers should be addressed with much greater urgency. In industries where there are chronic shortages of staff, I would like to see a stronger emphasis from the Scottish Government on encouraging women to take up roles within them.
“The SNP Government have had years to sort this issue out, and yet they have dragged their heels. I am pleased the UK Government have stepped in to provide some short term relief for the industry, but it is down to the Scottish Government to come up with a long term solution.
“I understand that traditional trade industries might not be for all women. However, women should be encouraged to consider opportunities that exist for them like those available in the butchery industry, amongst others. Likewise, these industries should remain open to taking on young women and understand the skills they have to offer.”