I’m Jess, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Coordinator at BDP, a multi-disciplinary international practice of architects, engineers, urbanists and designers. I am responsible for driving initiatives, introducing new policies, celebrating events, analysing data and educating people through talks with speakers (both internal and external), blogs, resources etc.
I oversee our EDI Network, BDP Belonging, which has Director and Employee reps in our UK, Ireland and Toronto offices as well as sitting on BDP Mind meetings (our network of Mental Health First Aiders) to ensure we are aligned.
BDP Belonging has a range of EDI Project Groups made up of engaged BDP employees and includes race equity, gender equity, family friendliness, social mobility, inclusive design, recruitment, and external identity and we meet monthly to collectively drive action plans forward to drive positive changes. Each project group is led by a Principal or Director to ensure leadership accountability.
I am supported by the HR Director, Karen, and Architect Principal, Sue, who is also on the board and drives EDI from a leadership perspective.

Statement:

EDI is an ever evolving and it is important to acknowledge that we are all on a learning journey, each at different stages. We all need to be open, understanding and take accountability for creating an inclusive environment.