LGBTQ+ 'needs celebrating within the construction field’
1-minute read
To mark Pride Month 2022 we’ll be amplifying the stories of our LGBTQ+ customers. Here, Madog Davies writes about setting up a construction business, Tŷ Davies Group, in Wales.
Helping others be heard
Speaking of their experience as a small business owner, Davies said: “I’ve owned similar businesses for the past 25 years, and within that time, I also ‘came out’.
“As you may imagine, the construction industry hasn’t been known to be the best when it comes to tolerances of others.
“Our presence needs celebrating within the construction field. Those of whom are strong can show others that we are here, so that those who may be scared or constantly in battle can be heard.”
‘I may not win some contracts’
“There are a few challenges that I face as an LGTBQ+ business owner,” Davies said.
“I may not win some contracts from prospective clients. And when sourcing materials at several building merchants, I sometimes overhear others making fun with bravado, particularly with sexual references.
“Most of the time I don't react – you can't educate the uneducable.”
Adapting after the pandemic
Like many business owners, Davies needed to adapt Tŷ Davies Group to survive after the pandemic: “I diversified into producing exquisite garden spaces – namely green oak timber rooms finished in lime plaster and other ecological sustainable materials.
“This is of course in its infancy and I'm getting a lot of aid from the Welsh government, as well as people around me that I trust.
When it comes to future dreams, Davies hopes to be "a premier supplier of these exquisite garden spaces in Wales and the borders.”
‘I celebrate my Pride every day’
On what Pride Month means to them, Davies said: “I celebrate my Pride every day. However, in Cardiff we are very lucky and have a fantastic Pride. I enjoy the festivities together with my family and close friends.”
And to all LTBTQ+ people thinking about setting up a small business, Davies said: “Go for it, don't let anybody stop you in your rights to realise your dreams.”
Keep an eye out for more Pride Month stories, and remember to support LGBTQ+ small businesses – this month and every month of the year.
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Written by
Catriona Smith
Catriona Smith is a content and marketing professional with 12 years’ experience across the financial services, higher education, and insurance sectors. She’s also a trained NCTJ Gold Standard journalist. As a Senior Copywriter at Simply Business, Catriona has in-depth knowledge of small business concerns and specialises in tax, marketing, and business operations. Catriona lives in the seaside city of Brighton where she’s also a freelance yoga teacher.
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