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Redcar steelworker launches soot business amid industry uncertainty

Redcar steel worker Kevin Fuller has launched his own business as a chimney sweep, after receiving funding from the SSI Task Force.

Kevin, who has worked at the steelworks since 1977, will continue his onsite role but now works evenings and weekends sweeping chimneys from Whitby and Pickering to Easington.

Kevin, who launched the business due to uncertainty surrounding his future employment, explained: “My dad worked at ICI in the 1970s and 1980s, and was a part-time chimney sweep between shifts. I would help him load his gear in and out of the van.

“He’s really proud of me for following in his footsteps and would jump at the chance to come along on jobs, although he’s now in his eighties.

“My dad’s challenged me to beat his record of doing 19 chimneys in one morning, although with each chimney taking me an hour and a half, I think that will be an impossible task!

“I decided to set up the business part-time, so that I have something to go into full-time if I’m no longer needed on site.

“The Task Force helped me get things off the ground with help to buy a van and specialist equipment as well as accreditation from the National Association of Chimney Sweeps. The support has been invaluable.”

Amanda Skelton, Chair of the SSI Task Force, added: “Kevin’s continuing the family tradition and his new business is going from strength to strength.

“So far the Task Force funding has seen over 260 new businesses started and we are keen to make sure they are all a success. The help to get your ideas off the ground is really the start of the process.

“I want people to know that the Task Force is still here to help. Almost 18 months on from the closure we know that some people who are in jobs are looking for better paid and more highly skilled jobs.

“Specialist training is still available – please contact your work coach or the National Careers Service.”

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