April 13, 2026
How one tradeswoman is opening doors for the next generation
Birmingham-based decorator Hayley Robinson is using her trade as a platform for something bigger – creating opportunities for others to step into the industry.
With over two decades of experience and a growing community initiative, Hayley is combining hands-on decorating with training, mentoring and outreach, particularly aimed at women and young people.
Hayley started her career as an apprentice with a large building contractor before moving across commercial, housing and leisure sectors.
“I’ve worked on everything – housing contracts, hotel chains, schools, leisure,” she explains. “Everywhere I’ve worked, I’ve built connections and taken something from it.”
After years of employment, she made the move into full self-employment three years ago – growing her business through reputation and, more recently, social media.
“I always thought I needed to work for a company,” she says. “But over time, my self-employed work grew, and I just went with it.”
Tackling isolation in the trades
Like many in the industry, Hayley found that working as a decorator can be isolating.
That’s what led her to start running workshops alongside her day-to-day work – something that has quickly become a key part of her business.
“It gives me more purpose,” she says. “I love decorating, but after 21 years it can get repetitive. I really enjoy working with people – it’s a completely different side to the job.”
Running a couple of workshops each month, Hayley works with a wide range of groups, from women looking to learn DIY skills, to young people exploring career options.
Opening up the trade to women
A major focus of Hayley’s work is encouraging more women into decorating and the wider construction sector.
“I’ve had women who just want to learn to do things themselves, others who want to network, and some who are thinking about getting into the trade,” she says.
For many, it’s about visibility.
“If people don’t see it, they don’t know it’s an option,” Hayley explains. “It’s important to show that you can run your own business, especially as a woman.”
Engaging the next generation
Hayley is also working closely with schools and community groups, delivering practical, hands-on sessions for young people – including those who may not thrive in traditional academic environments.
One recent project saw her leading a live decorating job at a gym with teenagers aged 14–19.
“I treated it like a real working day,” she says. “They got hands-on experience, something for their CV, and a certificate at the end.”
The results were immediate.
“They were engaged, they worked hard, and they took pride in what they were doing,” she says. “Some of the parents even got in touch afterwards asking about opportunities.”
For Hayley, this is where the real impact lies – giving young people a pathway into the trades that they might not otherwise consider.
Real-world results
The long-term impact of this approach is already becoming clear.
Hayley recalls one young woman who attended a workshop with little confidence and limited resources.
“Two years on, she’s set up her own decorating page, passed her driving test and is taking on jobs,” she says. “That’s what it’s all about.”
While not every participant will go into the trade, the goal is to broaden horizons.
“I’m not saying don’t do school or qualifications,” Hayley adds. “But there are other routes – and practical work can be a great option.”
Turning workshops into a training academy
Looking ahead, Hayley’s ambition is to scale the initiative into a fully-fledged training academy.
Having recently gained a teaching qualification, she’s now exploring the next steps – including securing premises and applying for funding.
“I’d love to make it a stable business – a proper training academy,” she says. “There’s nothing else like it locally, and it’s definitely needed.”
She’s already set up a Community Interest Company (CIC) and is exploring funding options through local councils and grant schemes, while continuing to run pilot workshops to build momentum.
Support from the supply chain
Hayley’s work is also gaining recognition from within the industry, with suppliers stepping in to support her efforts.
“Paint brands have donated materials for the workshops,” she says. “Everyone seems to be behind it – it’s just about finding the time to grow it.”
This kind of support could prove crucial as the initiative develops – particularly if it expands into a larger training operation.
A model for the industry?
With ongoing skills shortages and a growing need to attract new entrants into the trades, Hayley’s approach highlights a practical, grassroots solution.
By combining real-world experience with community engagement, she’s not only building her own business – but helping to strengthen the future workforce.
“I think there’s a real need for it,” she says. “People want to learn, they just need the opportunity.”
Follow Hayley’s work
Hayley shares updates from her decorating projects and workshops via The Painted Lady on social media, where she continues to connect with new participants, trades and supporters. https://www.instagram.com/thepaintedlady.uk/
