Hare Brained Scheme??

Hi Folks. Just toying with ideas at the mo and would appreciate some advice.

I'm in my late 40's and with things the way they are at the moment, you never know how the world of work is going to go so am looking for a fallback.

I do a technical job and have done for many years. I served an apprenticeship when I left school and am mechanically minded. 

I can turn my hand to most things as a diy'er, plumbing, plastering, bathroom fitting, kitchen fitting, car mechanics etc, but I do understand that DIY is a whole different world to taking these up as a pro.

I've always enjoyed plumbing in the main and its always very satisfying when it goes right - scary when it doesnt mind!

I was wondering if maybe taking it up on a domestic plumbing level, (not gas or commercial stuff) was a viable thing to do and possible on a part time basis?

Would it be a daft idea to sound out local plumbers up here and see if they need someone to give a hand at weekends or one day during the week so i could gain experience? Is this even the done thing??? Would it be met with laughter or worse?

I've no idea what qualifications I need to go it alone part time? - could that be studied part time?


As a great man once said 'Plumbing - its not all pop and crisps' - I understand that. Fixing a leak under the floorboards in someones house is a world away from me fitting a new bath in my own house.

I'm just looking to have something to fall back on just in case.

Everyone seems really helpful here from what i've seen so thought I'd ask and see what the thoughts were.

Thanks all.