UK
Ireland
Scotland
London
Eight prominent professional bodies within the built environment sector have reaffirmed their collective dedication to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) by signing a new five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement extends the work of the B.E. Inclusive group, building on the foundation of the original three-year MoU signed in April 2022.
The renewed commitment sees the original six signatories – the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), The Landscape Institute, Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), and the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) – welcome two new members: the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) and the Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (CICES).
Since the launch of their initial joint EDI action plan, the collaboration has focused on elevating standards across built environment professions, aligning EDI practices, and driving significant progress within the sector. Key achievements under the previous MoU include:
• Unified Data Collection: Developing a consistent approach to data collection across the UK and internationally to gain a clear understanding of membership diversity, identify gaps, and inform targeted actions for improved benchmarking and transparency.
• Targeted Research: Conducting research with students and employers to gain insights into barriers hindering entry and progression, particularly concerning graduate recruitment and retention.
• Practical Guidance and Events: Hosting six sector-wide events and producing practical guidance to assist employers in creating more inclusive environments, with a specific focus on disabled professionals and women.
• Industry Influence: Contributing to the Construction Leadership Council's EDI vision and supporting initiatives led by the Construction Industry Council (CIC).
This extended partnership signifies a shared ambition to accelerate progress and embed meaningful, long-term change throughout the built environment professions.
Dr Victoria Hills, Chief Executive of the Royal Town Planning Institute, said: "Three years ago, we signed the MoU as a powerful expression of our shared commitment to building a more inclusive and supportive built environment sector, one that reflects and serves the full diversity of our membership. Re-signing the MoU sends a clear message: our dedication to equity, diversity, and inclusion remains unwavering. We've achieved a great deal over the past three years, but by continuing to collaborate, we can build on that momentum and go further, faster."
Caroline Gumble, Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute of the Building, expressed her delight at signing the new MoU, emphasising the renewed collective commitment and welcoming the new institutes.
Robert Hughes, Chief Executive of the Landscape Institute, highlighted the importance of an inclusive profession for designing places that serve everyone, noting that the renewed partnership enables shared resources and amplified diverse voices.
Valerie Vaughan-Dick, Chief Executive of the Royal Institute of British Architects, expressed optimism that the ongoing commitment will lead to greater representation and a more attractive and welcoming sector for study, work, and engagement.
Simon Hamlyn, Chief Executive of the Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors, remarked on the timely nature of CICES joining the B.E. Inclusive campaign, aligning with their recently reaffirmed EDI commitment.
Tara Page, Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists, conveyed her delight at joining B.E. Inclusive and looked forward to collaborative efforts to ensure a safe and welcoming community for all professions in the built environment.
Justin Young, Chief Executive of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, underscored the strength of the B.E. Inclusive partnership in tackling major industry challenges beyond EDI, expressing confidence in greater impact with the expanded collective.
Dr Janet Young, Director General of the Institution of Civil Engineers, reiterated the ICE's mission to support professionals of all backgrounds, stating that an inclusive built environment attracts and retains diverse talent essential for addressing societal challenges.
