A new group is being formed to support women in the fishing industry, offering them the opportunity to network with their counterparts around the Welsh coast.
Still being developed by the Wales Seafood Cluster, Women In Welsh Fisheries has initially been established to enable women from the fishing industry to meet up, share experiences and raise awareness of their work and lives.
“We want as many women as possible to take up this opportunity to join a group that not only provides a social outlet but understands their way of life, its challenges and opportunities,” said North Wales Seafood Cluster manager Nia Griffith.
“We’re keen to link up with similar groups across the world to learn from their experiences of setting up a Women In Fisheries group,” she added.
Ceredigion fishmonger, Jane Roche, had to adapt quickly when the Covid-19 pandemic hit, closing the café she owned with husband Richard and turning their fishmonger shop into a delivery service.
During this time Jane found support in a raft of online courses and webinars arranged by the Welsh Seafood Cluster a process which ‘helped keep me sane,’ she said. “Having the opportunity to meet and talk to other women in fishing – whether they be fishers, processors, merchants, fishermen’s wives or mothers – really helps, even if it is only for half an hour or an hour,” Jane added.
Anyone who would like to join Women In Welsh Fisheries can contact Nia at nia.griffith@menterabusnes.co.uk.
