UK Construction Week setting the standards on diversity

UK Construction Week (UKCW) is promoting greater equality, diversity, and inclusion with the new guide for its 600+ exhibitors.

The show organisers, Media 10, have worked with a new steering committee made up of representatives from all parts of the industry to create the guide. The likes of Balfour Beatty’s senior planner and LGBT Network co-chair, and the Group HR and diversity manager at Willmott Dixon, played a part in the process.

Nathan Garnett, director of UK Construction Week explains: “We have benefitted enormously from the input of many diversity champions and leaders within the construction industry over the last couple of years, and have published the videos from our Diversity in Construction panel discussions so that others can hear their advice as well.

He continues: “We have always promoted a very strong and diverse conference platform, but now we’re looking at the exhibition too. I think UK Construction Week can play a pivotal role in highlighting those who are making great strides in balancing out inequality in our industry, to demonstrate best practice and to inspire others. We should use this event as a celebration and an opportunity to challenge ourselves to make that commitment to achieving minimum requirements and demonstrating on-going progression.”

The new guide from UKCW sets out an exhibitor code of conduct, and encourages exhibitors to consider the mix of staff and representation present on stands. In addition, standards also cover issues such as clothing worn by promotional staff and the activities on stands.

Aaron Reid, head of sustainable procurement at Balfour Beatty says: “It is essential that the industry joins together to ensure that a career in construction is considered an attractive option and that we grow to become representative of the communities in which we operate.”

UK Construction Week will take place at the Birmingham NEC from 9-11 October, housing over 670 exhibitors and nine shows in one location.

Contact:

Media 10 Limited,
Crown House,
151 High Road,
Loughton,
United Kingdom,
IG10 4LF

Phone: 020 3225 5200
Fax: 020 3225 5202

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