[Margaret Pilkington]

I know men who are cleaners.
towards the end of his working life my father was a school caretaker - he cleaned the school.....he also did basic maintenance, but the major part of the job was cleaning the school.
Many jobs are less gender specific than at any time in the past.

I agree with Boeing guy.
During my career I was responsible for the health, safety and care of many thousands of women. I studied hard to get my qualifications. I was also responsible for the education and training of students under my care.
I was subject to yearly appraisal and every three years I could be asked to prove my continued education.
My salary was not great(when the responsibilities were considered)....but it was the job I chose to do. I knew what it entailed when I went into it.
Work is more than just a paypacket...it is what makes us get up each day and stir ourselves. It is an important part of daily life and that which keeps us sane...and builds confidence and self esteem. A feeling that your life is worthwhile...the you are worth something to the community in which you live.