A SURVEY of construction workers by CV-Library, a UK jobsite, found only 50% considered the construction sector to be diverse and inclusive, with 42% reporting they’d experienced or witnessed discrimination in their workplace.
The findings reveal persistent barriers facing minority groups seeking construction work and serve as a wake-up call for a sector already short on talent, with an extra 240,000 workers needed over the next five years, according to CITB.
Workplace discrimination reported by 42% of UK construction workers
The survey of 538 construction workers found 20% had personally experienced discrimination while a further 22% had witnessed it.
To help break down barriers in the construction industry, CV-Library has renewed its partnership with BPIC (Black Professionals in Construction). Now entering its third year, the collaboration focuses on improving visibility and access to opportunities for black and ethnic minority professionals across the construction and built sectors.
Lee Biggins, founder and CEO of CV-Library, said: ‘It’s disappointing to hear so many construction workers are still experiencing high levels of discrimination. It’s why our work with BPIC is even more important by helping construction industry employers reach a more diverse pool of potential workers.
‘With £500bn of infrastructure investment planned over the next five years, the construction sector is facing a significant shortage of talent to build Britain. Attracting the broadest range of talent – from brickies to surveyors – isn’t only important to ensure equal opportunities for everyone, but critical to get Britain building.’
Amos Simbo, director of BPIC Network, shared: ‘Our partnership with CV-Library is helping us broaden and diversify the talent pipeline across construction. By connecting black and ethnic minority professionals with meaningful opportunities, we’re not only opening doors for underrepresented groups but also helping the sector address critical hiring shortages and build a stronger, more inclusive workforce.’
www.cv-library.co.uk
