Industry coalition launched to drive diversity in construction 

The Construction Inclusion Coalition (CIC) has been established by 11 construction organisations with the aim of improving equality, diversity and inclusion across the industry. 

The Coalition’s founding members include Aliaxis, Baxi, Bradfords, Builders Merchants Federation (BMF), Highbourne Group, Ibstock, Knauf, National Merchant Buying Society (NMBS), Travis Perkins, Wavin and Wolseley. 

The CIC will represent more than 250,000 construction workers and, in its first year, will focus its efforts on addressing gender representation within the industry. 

CIC chair and Toolstation managing director Angela Rushforth said: “There is no doubt that the future of our industry is at risk if we don’t create an environment where all our colleagues feel safe, empowered and confident. I want all young women to see the construction sector as I do – full of opportunity.

“We aren’t attracting and retaining from a diverse pool of talent, because many think the construction sector is not for them. These are industry-wide challenges that require industry-wide solutions, which is why the Construction Inclusion Coalition has been set up to improve equity, diversity and inclusion.

"We are calling on businesses across the sector – no matter how big or small – to join our Coalition and commit to taking action in their organisations.”

Simon Oakland, CEO of Wolseley Group, added: "Attracting a more diverse range of people to the construction sector is fundamental to the future of our industry. We will only achieve our shared goals around inclusion by working with our customers and partners across the wider construction sector.”

The Coalition has been endorsed by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC), which draws together business leaders from across the construction industry and links them with the UK government.

CLC co-chair and Mace CEO Mark Reynolds said: “The Construction Leadership Council has long been advocating for businesses and organisations in our sector to collaborate to make our industry more welcoming and inclusive.

"It is clear that ensuring a consistent approach to equity, diversity and inclusion will be vital for the future of construction, which is why we’re pleased to support the Construction Inclusion Coalition. There is much work to be done, however I am confident that by sharing knowledge and raising standards, we can make a meaningful impact across the sector.”