A NEW initiative has been launched to promote diversity and inclusion across Scotland’s construction sector with targeted support being offered to the industry’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The Construction Scotland Innovation Centre (CSIC), through the DIveIN training and development programme, will give firms the tools and skills they need to establish or enhance their offering to staff, depending on the stage they are at.

CSIC developed the 12-month programme in partnership with Equate Scotland, which has previously worked with Balfour Beatty, Morrison Construction, Cala Homes and Historic Environment Scotland.

SMEs account for around 95% of Scotland’s construction sector and the initiative has been specifically tailored to provide them with the advice and guidance to implement real change.

While the pandemic has shifted priorities towards industry recovery, CSIC said the DIveIN programme will encourage businesses to promote diversity and inclusion, to ensure it remains an important topic for 2021 against the backdrop and challenges of Brexit and Covid-related restrictions.

A dozen workshops, discussions and virtual events will focus on raising awareness and sharing best practice from organisations of all sizes, including any cross-over with academia.

Participants will receive a certificate on completion of the programme, which will encourage participation from all organisations working in the built environment.

The first scene-setting event is on January 26, and speakers include Amanda McKay from Balfour Beatty, who will discuss her experience of being transgender in the construction industry; Emily Carr, of FourWard Architecture and Masterplanning, who will share insights as an early-career professional; and Michael Divers from Sir Robert McAlpine, who will talk about his experience of delivering a large-scale culture change programme.

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“Diversity and inclusion should be viewed as an opportunity for the construction industry, rather than a challenge,” said Douglas Morrison, CSIC’s director of operations and future skills.

“Building a diverse workforce can only be viewed as a positive and encouraging new skills and talent to enter the sector will undoubtedly bring new ideas that can aid growth and development.

“The industry has been making moves in the right direction, but with a dedicated programme of support we’re hoping to build on that momentum, particularly focusing on SMEs to ensure they have the tools and knowledge to make meaningful changes.

“Throughout the programme we’ll be working closely with every corner of the sector, from individuals and small businesses to large corporations with established policies already in place.”