International Women’s Day – Inspiring Inclusion: Diversifying UK Roofing

THIS YEAR, International Women’s Day is being celebrated on 8 March with a theme of Inspiring Inclusion.

The public perception of the UK roofing sector is one of a male-dominated industry. That may be true of roles ‘on the tools’ but there are many women working in the industry. Roles women excel at in the roofing sector include: managing director, estimators, specification writers, bid writers, business development, administration, finance and logistics.

Why do we need more diversity and inclusion? 

Diverse and inclusive working environments are more enjoyable places to be – a vital consideration in the context of an acute and longstanding roofing skills shortage. A greater proportion of women in the sector improves workplace productivity, and balances and enhances team skills in any organisation. When teams are more varied, according to this Harvard study, they are actually smarter.

Encouraging women, especially from underrepresented backgrounds, into roofing begins by creating a diverse workforce.

Challenging the Stereotypes

Gen Z is predicted to make up 27 percent of the workforce by 2025, demonstrating the importance of adapting the expectations around workplaces. Studies show that 70% of Gen Z would prioritise working for a company whose values more closely align with their own.

Historically, certain trades such as roofing may have been perceived by some as unwelcoming environments. These stereotypes have the power to deter women and underrepresented individuals from pursuing a career in the sector, through fear of feeling unsafe or uncomfortable.

It is crucial to challenge and dispel these stereotypes through increased awareness, representation, and clear communication of business values. So much so that 56% of Gen Z in the UK are hesitant to take on a role from a company that does not have diverse leadership.

Businesses and organisations need to focus on establishing an inclusive workplace culture by implementing robust policies and continual learning and development. By prioritising this, we can create a more inclusive and welcoming workplace where everyone feels safe and valued.

Air ventilation specialist Airmatic has put together some practical suggestions for creating a more diverse workforce to #InspireInclusion.

Top Tips for Improving Workforce Inclusion

Hire an inclusivity, diversity, and equality officer

If you are unsure of where to start within your organisation, there is help available to assist you in implementing these changes. Consider hiring or outsourcing an equality, diversity and inclusion (ED&I) officer. They will implement a harmonious company culture, along with strategic goals and key company policies.

Fair recruitment and hiring practices

When hiring new team members, fair and equal hiring practices organisations should comply with anti-discrimination laws and regulations. Prioritising fair recruitment, organisations can access the best talent available. It can also improve employee morale and engagement which will retain talent and drive innovation.

Make it your core values

Re-evaluate your core company values and live by them. Think deeply about what your EDI values will be, how you can implement them, and illustrate what your company hopes to achieve and represent within these.

Create safe spaces

Create safe spaces where employees can talk, make suggestions, speak to their superiors, and provide multiple ways to give feedback. By involving all employees in inclusion efforts, you are demonstrating a commitment to listening to their concerns and valuing their input, which will create a more positive workplace culture.

Have and enforce non-discrimination-policy

Setting clear expectations about acceptable behaviour at work is not only the right thing to do ethically, it also prevents discrimination and protects employees and their emotional and mental wellbeing.

Training and development opportunities

Inclusive training programs can educate and raise awareness around unconscious biases, stereotypes, and systemic barriers that may exist in the workplace. This will not only strengthen team bonding but through understanding and empathy will ensure that each team member feels included and valued.

Ensure equal opportunity

Promoting fairness and equality in the workplace will ensure that all employees have a fair chance at succeeding based on their skills and performance, rather than other factors such as race, gender, age, religion, or disability. A few ways you can implement this is through fair recruitment and hiring practices, providing employees equal pay and benefits, and offering flexible work arrangements.

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