The Stair Guys Join London Tool Theft Rally to Protect Tradespeople
Standing with Trades United to demand action against the tool theft epidemic
This Monday, 3rd February 2025, The Stair Guys will join tradespeople from across the UK in a powerful demonstration against tool theft. The rally, organised by Trades United, will take place in Westminster, London, to demand stricter enforcement of theft laws and better protection for tradespeople.
The Fight Against Tool Theft
Tool theft is a growing crisis in the UK, with thousands of tradespeople falling victim each year. The Stair Guys are proud to stand with Trades United and other industry professionals to demand action from the government. This rally follows the success of the first event in June 2024, which brought together tradespeople, organisations like Band of Builders, SelectaDNA, and the Metropolitan Police to address this critical issue.
June 2024 tool theft rally in London (Image: Trades United)
Aerial view of 2024 tool theft rally convoy (Image: Trades United)
What’s Happening at the Rally?
The rally will begin at Brent Cross, with a convoy of tradespeople driving to Westminster for a two-hour ‘go-slow’ demonstration in Parliament Square. This peaceful protest aims to raise awareness of the devastating impact of tool theft on livelihoods and mental well-being.
Why The Stair Guys Are Joining
As a small business in the construction industry, The Stair Guys understand the devastating impact of tool theft. Losing tools doesn’t just mean financial loss—it disrupts livelihoods, delays projects, and causes immense stress for tradespeople and their families.
We’re joining this rally to:
- Support our community: Stand in solidarity with fellow tradespeople who face this issue daily.
- Demand action: Call on the government to enforce stricter laws and provide better protection.
- Raise awareness: Highlight the scale of the problem and its impact on small businesses like ours.
The Tool Theft Crisis
Tool theft is more than just a financial burden—it’s a threat to the livelihoods of thousands of tradespeople across the UK. Despite existing laws like the Theft Act 1968, which imposes severe penalties for handling stolen goods, enforcement remains inadequate due to insufficient funding and resources.
Trades United leading the fight against tool theft
Key Facts:
- Over 46,000 people signed Trades United’s petition (#659019) in 2024, calling for action against tool theft.
- Tool theft costs tradespeople an average of £4,470 per incident, including lost income and replacement costs.
- Many victims report increased insurance premiums and mental health struggles following theft.
What We’re Demanding
Trades United and The Stair Guys are calling for:
- Increased funding for law enforcement to tackle motor vehicle crimes and tool theft effectively.
- Stronger penalties for handling stolen goods, including extending the timeframe for repeat offenders.
- Revised legislation to include all power tools under the Equipment Theft (Prevention) Act 2023.
- Aggravated offence status for tool theft to reflect its severe impact on livelihoods.
Join the Movement
Tool theft affects us all. Here’s how you can help:
- Attend the rally in Westminster on 3rd February 2025
- Spread awareness by sharing this article and rally details on social media
- Contact your local MP to demand action on tool theft
Together, we can protect tradespeople’s livelihoods and create a safer, fairer industry for all.
At The Stair Guys, we’re committed to supporting our community and fighting for meaningful change in the construction industry.
