Tradespeople across Rochdale and the UK will see stronger legal protections after MP Paul Waugh secured tougher sentencing rules for tool theft through a new law aimed at cracking down on the crime’s devastating impact.
Thieves who target vans and steal tools used by builders, electricians, plumbers and other trades will now face longer sentences under the Sentencing Bill, a move hailed as a ‘major victory’ for working people by Rochdale MP Paul Waugh.
The changes follow years of campaigning from Mr Waugh and trade organisations, with the new legislation requiring judges to factor in the full impact of tool theft on a victim’s livelihood, mental health and business when deciding a sentence.
Tool theft has long been treated as a property crime, despite many victims losing the ability to work overnight. Mr Waugh, who backed a 10-minute rule bill to change the law, said the updated sentencing guidelines reflect the reality faced by self-employed workers across Rochdale and beyond.
The new measures include:
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Enhanced protection for victims: Courts must now consider emotional, financial, and business disruption suffered by victims of tool theft, recognising it as an attack on someone’s ability to earn.
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Community restriction zones: Probation services can stop repeat offenders from accessing construction sites, DIY stores, or known tool storage areas.
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Tougher community sentences: Offenders could face bans on driving, drinking, or attending public events, increasing the consequences of non-custodial punishments.
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Expanded Intensive Supervision Courts: Specialised courts will focus on serial offenders targeting multiple tradespeople, aiming to reduce reoffending.
Paul Waugh MP said the new law was a turning point:
“This is a huge victory for the hardworking tradespeople of Rochdale and across Britain. Tool theft doesn’t just take away someone’s equipment – it destroys livelihoods, causes huge stress for families, and contributes to mental health pressures in a sector with one of the highest suicide rates.
I’m proud Labour’s Sentencing Bill finally treats this for what it is – an attack on working people. When we campaign hard enough, we deliver real change.”
The Ministry of Justice also praised the legislation. Nic Dakin, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, said:
“This Government is determined to take strong action to support tradespeople and punish those responsible for damaging their businesses and lives through tool theft.”
The changes follow reports of rising tool theft across the North West, with many tradespeople facing repeat incidents and struggling to claim back losses through insurance.
Mr Waugh has pushed for reform through parliamentary speeches, cross-party collaboration and meetings with industry stakeholders. He has previously said that for self-employed tradespeople, the impact of theft is “far worse than someone stealing a TV, this is their livelihood gone overnight”.
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