Infrastructure leaders unveil diversity charter

Leaders from across the UK’s infrastructure sector have come together to launch a new Infrastructure Diversity Charter.

The initiative aims to drive change across the sector, creating a more inclusive and diverse workforce and helping to address some of the UK’s skills shortages.  

The charter sets out a strategic framework to support change across five areas: attraction; retention; progression; leadership; and data and feedback.

It also sets out broad commitments for individuals, organisations and the wider sector, as well as insights and case studies.   

Infrastructure Matters partnered with the National Infrastructure Commission, alongside academic partner The Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction (BSSC), to develop the charter. 

The development of each of the five principles was led by industry representatives with input and feedback from colleagues and contacts from across the infrastructure sector. 

The charter is aimed at all organisations, from major construction firms and engineering consultancies to SMEs and supply chain partners.

Julia Prescot CBE, deputy chair of the National Infrastructure Commission and BSSC honorary professor, said: “It has been incredible to see the industry come together to solve a pressing issue that is not only key for the future of the infrastructure sector but for the nation’s economic prosperity.

“There are critical skills shortages in the UK that need to be addressed, and a significant percentage of the population have historically been excluded or put off from joining or remaining in the infrastructure workforce. 

“We therefore need to prove to organisations that embracing diversity is a strategic way to increase skills, foster innovation, drive productivity and deliver better outputs.”  

Frances Fernandes, managing director of Infrastructure Matters, added that “a larger, more skilled, diverse and sustainable workforce" is essential for infrastructure development.

“Partnering with the National Infrastructure Commission and industry leaders, we have drawn together this Infrastructure Diversity Charter not merely as a statement of intent but also as a call to action for organisations and policymakers to create a more inclusive and resilient workforce,” Fernandes said.

“By adopting its principles, the infrastructure sector can unlock its full potential and create more equitable and efficient infrastructure.”