This network actively encourages a culture of respect, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Its members help us educate and train all employees on LGBTQ+ issues – working with external partners and our supply chain to drive best practice within our industry.
We have five employee-led Affinity Networks that help us to build understanding in all areas of diversity and inclusion, and to make meaningful change in the medium to long term. They help to formulate action plans for us to take forward and promote a more inclusive workplace that enables innovation, understanding and harmony.
Our Multi-Cultural network helps the business understand cultural experiences and provides an open platform for employees to bring their own unique perspective to the development of the business’s working culture. Its members raise awareness and support events and help us identify and remove any barriers that might be holding back their peers from flourishing.
Our Multi-Cultural Affinity Network was recognised at the Civil Engineers Contractors Association (CECA) Inspiring Change Awards - securing the ‘Inspiring Change in the Workplace’ award.
As a Disability Confident company, we’re always looking for new ways to become more accessible for disabled people. This is where our Ability network comes in. They help us spot and break down barriers to enable more people with disabilities to join us and thrive. They’re also a big part of our work to raise awareness and understanding of mental health issues.
In addition, we have created a specialist working group to support employees with neurodiverse conditions. The group educates others to build a better understanding of neurodiversity, and helps to identify workplace systems and tools which enables colleagues to perform at their best.
People from across our business are working together to create a more diverse and inclusive construction sector by arranging events and sharing experiences that encourage gender equality. Our employees are driving the business and industry towards a balanced workforce by being role models for those in the next generation, who are thinking of a career in construction.
In addition to our Affinity Networks, we have also developed:
- A reverse mentoring programme, which pairs employees with senior leaders
- Leadership training, equipping senior leaders with the skills needed to embed an inclusive culture within their teams
Our Neurodiversity network supports employees with neurodiverse conditions and raises awareness to build a better understanding of neurodiversity. The principles guiding the network's approach come under four pillars:
- Supporting colleagues - Aiming to provide a caring and inclusive environment where our neurodiverse colleagues can thrive and feel valued.
- Recruiting the best talent - Supporting the business in actively seeking and welcoming individuals with diverse needs and perspectives, recognising the unique strengths they bring to our team.
- Educating and increasing understanding - Working to raise awareness and knowledge about neurodiversity, fostering a culture of empathy and acceptance.
- Creating inclusive workspaces - Striving to identify and implement workplace systems and tools that empower all colleagues to perform at their best.
By following these principles, the Network aims to build a better understanding of neurodiversity, and helps to identify workplace systems and tools which enables colleagues to perform at their best.
