Quality Plumber Week, now in its third year, is once again celebrating the dedicated and hard-working plumbing and heating engineers of the UK.

Taking place from October 3-9, the week will build on the success of previous years to unite the whole industry in shining a spotlight on the key roles played by plumbers in our communities.

The UK’s plumbers are a dedicated and highly skilled workforce that delivers safe water and heating to homes and workspaces throughout the country, though most of us take these services for granted.

Plumbers do the jobs that most people would rather leave and often come to the rescue with burst pipes and broken boilers, while also providing consumers with up to date advice on heating technologies, energy saving tips and water safety.

The week is organised by Association of Plumbing & Heating Contractors (APHC) and stresses the importance of using properly qualified, trained and accredited plumbers in an attempt to cut the numbers of rogue traders who operate within the industry.

Homeowners are being encouraged to check if their tradesperson has professional qualifications and accreditation to a professional trade body in order to make sure they do not become victims of sub-standard work.

By increasing the profile of plumbing as a respected profession, it is hoped that more young people will be encouraged to consider an apprenticeship in the industry.

The latest research carried out by APHC has shown that attitudes towards apprenticeships seem to have shifted in the last few years, with 86% of those surveyed agreeing that school leavers should be encouraged to consider an apprenticeship instead of being pushed into the Higher Education route, with just 2% disagreeing.

As apprenticeships once again become an accepted option post-16 education, the trade must promote the benefits and positives of becoming a plumber or heating engineer to create a new generation of professional tradespeople.