Inclusion: A Shared Commitment Across NACF

At NACF we recognise that building inclusive environments is just as important as constructing physical spaces. With Global Diversity Awareness Month just behind us, we proudly stand alongside our contractors, consultants, and public sector partners to reaffirm our collective commitment to Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion (DEI), not only within our frameworks but across the wider construction industry. 

 Diversity in Public Sector Construction: Why It Matters 

 The public sector plays a pivotal role in shaping the built environment and delivering infrastructure that serves diverse communities. As a strategic procurement vehicle for public sector construction projects across the North West, NWCH is uniquely positioned to influence how inclusivity is embedded in the way we build, collaborate, and deliver. 

Public sector construction is more than bricks and mortar, it’s about creating spaces that reflect the people who use them. From schools and hospitals to civic buildings and transport hubs, these projects must be designed and delivered with equity and accessibility at their core. 

A Framework for Inclusion  

NWCH’s frameworks are built on collaboration, transparency, and shared values. Through our partnerships with local authorities and other public bodies, we are actively promoting inclusive practices across all stages of project delivery.  

This includes: 

• Inclusive design principles that consider the needs of all users, including those with disabilities, neurodivergence, and cultural differences. 

• Social value commitments that support local employment, apprenticeships, and community engagement, particularly in underrepresented areas. 

• Supplier diversity by encouraging SMEs, minority-owned businesses, and social enterprises to participate in public sector procurement. 

• Workforce representation through targeted recruitment, mentoring, and leadership development programmes. 

Leading by Example 

Our contractors and consultants are key allies in this journey. Many are already driving change through internal DEI strategies, inclusive site practices, and community outreach. By aligning these efforts with NACF’s values, we are creating a ripple effect across the sector, one that fosters respect, opportunity, and innovation. 

We also recognise the importance of data and accountability. That’s why frameworks across NACF continue to work with partners to monitor progress, share best practice, and ensure that diversity is not just a statement, but a measurable outcome. 

Building a More Equitable Future 

Awareness campaigns such as Global Diversity Month are a timely reminder that inclusion is not a box-ticking exercise, it’s a mindset. It’s about listening to lived experiences, challenging assumptions, and designing systems that work for everyone. 

As we look ahead, we remain committed to embedding DEI into the heart of public sector construction. Together, we are laying the foundations for a more equitable, resilient, and representative built environment, one project at a time.