State Association Conference of Women Entrepreneurs in Crafts NRW

At the NRW state association conference, the businesswomen in the skilled trades discussed the shortage of skilled workers, rising costs and the introduction of maternity protection for the self-employed.

This article is part of the special topic women in crafts

The state association conference of the Association of Women Entrepreneurs in Crafts (UFH) NRW in Kempen focused on challenges facing the sector, such as the impact of rising prices and the question of maternity leave for self-employed women. Regina Kleinschumacher, chairwoman of the UFH working group Kempen-Viersen, and Juana Bleker, chairwoman of the UFH State Association NRW, also welcomed the State Secretary in NRW Ministry of Economic Affairs Silke Krebs. In her keynote address, she informed the audience about current projects of the ministry to support and relieve the burden on craft businesses.

The discussion focused on the shift away from fossil fuels as part of the energy transition and the need to reduce economic dependencies in light of global crises. Krebs also addressed the skilled worker shortage as one of the most pressing problems. In this context, she mentioned existing support programs for apprentices and initiatives to increase the proportion of women in skilled trades. Another key focus was the compatibility of family and self-employment, including financial security in the event of pregnancy.

Discussion about recruiting skilled workers

Later, the topic of recruiting skilled workers was discussed. Entrepreneur Johanna Schuh used practical examples to demonstrate how craft businesses can strategically use social media to reach new employees. Particularly authentic content, such as insights into daily work life or introductions of employees, contributed to a wide reach and strengthened the visibility of companies in the digital space. The subsequent discussion took up these approaches and explored them in greater depth from various perspectives.

Master painter and head of the Lower Rhine Painters' and Decorators' Guild, Stephanie Jahrke, the mayor of Kempen, Christoph Dellmans, the managing director of the Lower Rhine Chamber of Skilled Crafts, Thomas Gütgens, and Johanna Schuh shared their experiences. It became clear that authentic formats on social media are an effective way to reach young people. Practical examples demonstrated that creative content achieves broad reach and can positively impact the number of job applications. At the same time, it was emphasized that a positive work environment plays a crucial role in retaining skilled workers long-term.

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Maternity protection for self-employed women

Christine Schmelting from the West German Association of Chambers of Skilled Crafts presented the results of a feasibility study on maternity protection for self-employed women. In a concluding discussion, Johanna Röh (master carpenter and initiator of the movement for maternity protection for the self-employed), Thomas Dreßen (IKK classic), and Christine Schmelting discussed the current situation. While the Maternity Protection Act has existed since 1952, it has not yet sufficiently addressed the specific circumstances of female entrepreneurs.

There was a lack of both legally mandated maternity protection periods and financial support measures for businesses. The issue has since been taken up politically and is included in the coalition agreement. At the same time, further discussion is needed, particularly regarding comprehensive protection even in complex pregnancies. Maternity protection is a fundamental social safety net and must be designed accordingly.

Source: UFH NRW

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