Caroline Gumble on community

Caroline Gumble CIOB

CIOB community stays strong during difficult year

THOUGH 2020 WAS CHALLENGING, THE CIOB AND MEMBERS HAVE ADAPTED FAST TO THE CHALLENGES PRESENTED BY THE PANDEMIC, WRITES CAROLINE GUMBLE

The CIOB is supporting members hit by the pandemic

“I have observed our members come together, supporting their colleagues and the construction industry in their regions. It’s been heartening to hear about”

This time last year, I wrote about the inspiring

community which makes up the global CIOB membership. I was reflecting on what I’d learned after getting out and about to meet members. One of the main things that struck me was the sense of community – the Hub networks, the trustees, Novus members, the whole of the CIOB family.

Who knew just how important that community would be during 2020? I have observed our members come together, supporting their colleagues and the construction industry in their regions. It’s been heartening to hear about and a real reminder of the strength we have when we come together.

In turn, the CIOB put in place a number of things to support members and the wider construction community. Early on, we recognised that site shutdowns, even temporary ones, would lead to a reduction in income for many in our industry. We offered, on a case-by-case basis, financial flexibility to members who requested it, with extended payments periods and some discounts. We’ve now formalised that support with the Covid-19 Support Fund for members, wherever they are in the world, who face financial difficulties as a result of the pandemic.

We tried to reach out to members to make sure they know about the support offered via our Benevolent Fund, including access to the services provided by Anxiety UK for those living with anxiety, stress or anxiety-based depression.

We moved events online, including our CPD and training courses, committee meetings, professional review and Fellowship workshops and even networking, with ‘Hubs in virtual pubs’.

And our annual celebration for Construction Manager of the Year is going virtual this year (do join us online on 25 November if you can).

You may also have noticed a strengthening of our collaboration and increase in communication with industry-wide groups, including Build UK and the Construction Leadership Council, working with and influencing government in advocating for the necessary measures and support to keep our sector going and help it to thrive in a post-covid economy.

I am proud of the fact CIOB adapted fast to the challenges we encountered during the pandemic. We implemented processes that are more environmentally sound and cost effective, while delivering a better customer experience. We will be taking many of these new ways of working and benefits forwards. I thank all our members for their ongoing professionalism, inspiring tenacity and encouraging support during 2020. ●

Caroline Gumble is CEO of the CIOB.

Changing attitudes towards disability

Let’s normalise the conversation about construction workers with disabilities, writes Jez Cutler

We all know we don’t live in a binary world and that we are complex and multifaceted individuals. So why do I struggle so much with identifying as being disabled?

I started in construction in 2005. I knew I had a rare form of muscular dystrophy, although outwardly was showing no signs. My condition is progressive, but the loss of muscle function didn’t really impact on me until I was in my early 30s. I had a dream job at Travis Perkins, guiding the business towards better environmental outcomes. Moreover, I had some great bosses and mentors.

In about 2010, I started walking like John Wayne – I’d hitch my thumbs in my belt and swing my hips – so I could still get around. My colleagues and my boss took their cue from me and nothing was ever said. But the group’s fleet manager banned me from driving because I was no longer safe. So I had to ask my boss for help. Three years later, I was in a powered wheelchair having had no significant time away from work and still making a substantial contribution.

My bosses found the balance between offering support and allowing me to stay in control. My identity was never taken away from me and I worked at Travis Perkins for another two years. I continue to work full-time and set up my own sustainability consultancy.

But I’m not sure others are as lucky as me. A good friend resigned because of poor health and told me he didn’t want to lose respect and influence by staying on when he was “past his best”. That’s what can happen if a safe and supportive environment is not created.

At Construct-Ability, a new networking and campaigning group, we aim to normalise conversations about disability. There are many people working in construction who identify – at least to themselves – as having a disability, but make fantastic contributions. Let’s create an inclusive industry that values the skills these individuals have to offer.

Jez Cutler is founder of Cutler Consulting and co-chair of Construct-Ability.