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28th January 2021

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Support gathers as Stephen Metcalfe MP accepts patronage of The iKBBI

Conservative Member of Parliament and member for South Basildon & East Thurrock, Stephen Metcalfe MP (pictured) this week demonstrated support of The Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installers, as he officially became its second Patron - joining fellow party Member of Parliament Brian Binley MP.

Staunch supporter of the UK's SME population, Stephen is keen to work with The iKBBI, not only to help professional tradesmen to be the best they can, but to also support the industry to improve standards in general and reduce the number of complaints received each year - a staggering £69m reported in 2011-12.

The iKBBI launched The Installation Standards Partnership (iSP initiative) last year, with major UK retailers invited to participate. B&Q, Bathstore, John Lewis and Tesco have already committed to the scheme with further announcements due later this year.

Speaking at his Party Conference this week, Stephen Metcalfe MP commented on the new patronage by saying: "I am delighted to have been invited to be a patron of the iKBBI. I hope that together we can improve the industry both for consumers and also for the many thousands of professionals who work across the industry. By applying professional standards we can give recognition to the many dedicated individuals who can sometimes get tarnished by cowboys operating without the skills and knowledge to do a good job."

iKBBI founder Damian Walters also commented by saying: "Mr Metcalfe's support is invaluable to an organisation like ours. Whilst high profile support is a story in itself, it is actually the real drive that both Stephen and Brian have towards the small business cause that is most valuable. Both of our patrons are passionate about positive change in this industry and I'm truly delighted that they are both committed to helping the cause in addition to their busy political lives".

The iKBBI is still welcoming interest from national retailers of kitchen, bedroom or bathroom product. For more information on the initiative:

T: 0845 519 2007
W: www.supportchange.org.uk

4th October 2013