The UK Construction Week (UKCW) has created a new guide that promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion. Media 10, the show organisers, have worked with a new committee that included representatives from all parts of the industry, such as Balfour Beatty’s senior planner and LGBT Network co-chair, and the Group HR and diversity manager at Willmott Dixon.

“We have benefited 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,” explained Nathan Garnett, director of UK Construction Week.

UKCW’s new guide sets out an exhibitor code of conduct that encourages companies to consider the mix of staff and representation present on their stands. It also covers issues such as the clothing worn by promotional staff and the activities available on stands.

Nathan argued that the UKCW has always promoted diversity in its conference platform, however, this time they chose to look at the exhibition as well. “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.”

Aaron Reid, head of sustainable procurement at Balfour Beatty, advised people in the construction industry to join together “to ensure that a career in construction is considered an attractive option and that we grow to become representatives of the communities in which we operate.”

The UK Construction Week will house over 670 exhibitors and nine shows, all taking place at the Birmingham NEC from the 9th until the 11th of October.