The changing culture of construction
Find out more about how the construction industry is pioneering change.
Diversity in Construction
Diversity and inclusion are part of the foundations of the construction industry. It may surprise you, given the misconceptions that still prevail, about just how varied, inclusive and diverse construction is. Old-fashioned and outdated values may persist in some quarters, but they are out of step with the reality.
Discover the stories of the talented and skilled individuals who are doing so much to make a difference to diversity in the workplace and making the construction industry one in which everyone is welcome - regardless of gender, race, disability or sexual identification.
An industry for all: inclusion and equality in construction
Whatever background you are from, there is a place for you in the construction industry. A diverse workforce brings benefits for both the employee and employer. Find out about how the construction industry is embracing equality, diversity and inclusion.
The importance of diversity and inclusion in the construction industry
The construction industry has made great progress in recent years to become more diverse and inclusive. An inclusive workplace is important because it encourages a greater range of voices to be heard and experiences shared and creates opportunities for a wider pool of talent in the industry. The construction industry should reflect the diversity of the general population.
The more inclusive and diverse the construction industry is, the more welcoming it will be for people from the LGBTQ+ and BAME communities, as well as encouraging applications from women and people with disabilities. There is still much to do. Women make up 15% of the workforce in the construction industry, but this number is still too low. Only 2% of construction employees currently identify as bisexual, gay or lesbian, whereas the LGBTQ+ community accounts for 3.2% of the UK population, based on a recent consensus.
Celebrating Pride in Construction
The construction industry takes huge pleasure in celebrating Pride Month. In the past, 1000s of builders have tied their boots with rainbow laces on construction sites across London, and LGBTQ+ employees take part in Pride celebrations all over the country.
Promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace
There are a whole range of things that employers can do to encourage greater diversity, inclusion and equality in the construction industry. From ‘no bystander’ policies to unconscious bias training, companies have the power to make LGBTQ+ employees feel welcome, safe and valued within the workplace.
According to Stonewall, around 35% of LGBTQ+ employees still feel they need to hide their gender identity or sexual orientation at work for fear of discrimination. That is why LGBTQ+ networks are so vital, both within individual companies and as collective organisations.