WSP's commitment to inclusion and diversity (I&D) is a central pillar of the company's culture and values. It stands at the forefront of efforts to foster an inclusive environment in which everyone can thrive.
WSP Global Inclusion & Diversity Director, Jane Grant, shares the importance of the Stonewall Workplace Equality Index submission for WSP's work in promoting diversity and inclusion, as well as recognising the crucial work of WSP's Visibility and Inclusion in the Built Environment (VIBE) committee.
WSP's submission to the Stonewall Workplace Equality Index sees the company move up 80 places to 114th, the highest placement since WSP's first submission in 2016.
Employer promoting diversity and inclusiveness
WSP promotes a culture in which inclusion, diversity and equity are expected and valued. The company also strives to create a sense of belonging for all, and its approach reflects the wider commitment to environmental, social and governance (ESG) matters. Everyone is empowered to speak up and be their authentic selves, regardless of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation, or ethnic background.
"It's fantastic to celebrate today's announcement by Stonewall, together with our Silver Award, as an important step in WSP's journey towards a more inclusive and diverse workplace," says Jane.
"I'd like to thank our VIBE committee for the important work they do to amplify the experience of LGBTQ+ communities, recognise their voices and create an inclusive environment in which people can thrive," comments Jane.
Raising awareness of the LGBT+ community
In celebration of the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT), WSP announced the launch of its VIBE group.
The VIBE group stands to enhance the firms inclusive and empowering culture in support of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and other sexual and gender minority (LGBT+) communities. Poignant to the group’s purpose, The Diversity Council Australia’s 2018 report Out at Work: From Prejudice to Pride revealed some startling statistics.
Those who conceal their identity within the workplace are:
- twice as likely to feel down at work
- 45 per cent less likely to be satisfied in their role Being ‘out’ at work helps drive performance
Those who are ‘out’ are:
- 50 per cent more likely to innovate
- 35 per cent more likely to work highly effective in their team
- 28 per cent more likely to provide excellent client service
“Employees that feel comfortable at work and safe in their community are more likely to reach their potential and deliver greater outcomes for our clients," says Kris Hird, WSP Senior Project Manager and VIBE founding partner.
“That is what the purpose of the group is about. By raising awareness and acceptance of the LGBT+ community at the same time as influencing our firm’s culture, we are better serving the interests of our people, our clients and the broader community,” comments Kris.
“The group is open to everyone in the firm including those who identify as LGBT+ to those who just want to be involved. Through promoting diversity and inclusiveness, we are celebrating the uniqueness of people all the while, better reflecting the make-up of our society,” adds Phil Greenwood, WSP Senior Transport Modeller and VIBE founding partner.
Celebrating the values of all employees
"Launching in conjunction with IDAHOBIT, a day which serves to raise awareness of violence, discrimination and repression of LGBT+ communities, the VIBE group is about WSP living out its Guiding Principles," says WSP Director for Transport in Australia, Charlie Jewkes.
“We don’t just value some of our people – we value ALL of our people and that means embracing and celebrating the entire gamut of diverse cultures, orientations and values of our employees and clients. By holding ourselves accountable against our Guiding Principles we are not only reflecting the interests of the community but helping our clients to achieve their goals,” Charlie adds.
Whilst the VIBE group has only just launched, it has taken months of hard work and pioneering from many people. WSP's dedicated Diversity Council and members such as Kris Hird, Phil Greenwood, and Leanne Whicker, as well as the group’s sponsors have been instrumental in forming the support network.
WSP embraces an inclusive and diverse culture that promotes equity
WSP's inclusive and diverse workplace means that employees can tap into their full potential because they feel valued and know they are an essential part of the organization.
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Disclosure: Where Women Work researches and publishes insightful evidence about how its paid member organizations support women's equality.