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Researchers at Loughborough University are keen to hear from LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender) construction workers on their experiences of the industry.
The Chartered Institute of Building-funded study, by Professor Andy Dainty and Dr Sarah Barnard at Loughborough University, will be used to help inform employment practices in the sector.
“Although there has been a sustained focus in recent years on understanding the experiences of underrepresented groups in construction, such as women and minority ethnic workers, there has been a paucity of work which has explored the experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender workers within the industry,” said Dr Barnard.
“Reasons for this are speculative, however it is likely that both the lack of visible difference in such workers, and few people identifying them as LGBT will have rendered them a difficult group to access.
“In this research, we will mobilise in-depth qualitative research methods to develop understanding of the range of experiences of LGBT workers, giving them a way of exploring their career narratives and reflecting on how being in a minority group may have impacted on professional development.
“The data analysis will directly feed into recommendations to develop inclusive practices in the construction sector.”
Construction workers interested in taking part in the study should contact [email protected].
