Inclusive design role models: Leadership insights from a construction and accessibility expert

Hello, my name is Jeremy. I'm a Director here at AtkinsRéalis and Head of the Project & Programme Services Property team in Devon & Cornwall. I started my career in the 90s in building surveying—and in 2014, I joined the organization as Head of Building Surveying in Exeter. In my current role, I lead multi-disciplinary teams, guiding clients through the construction process and ensuring projects are delivered on time and on budget. I'm passionate about working collaboratively with clients and contractors, always striving for excellence. As a leader, I aim to create an open, inclusive space where everyone feels empowered and supported to achieve their best.

How I became passionate about accessibility and inclusive design

When I started my career in 1994, around the time the Disability Discrimination Act came into force, I attended seminars highlighting how the industry was creating disabling environments. This inspired me to promote access and inclusive design for all and eliminate physical barriers from poor design decisions.

I strive to make projects as inclusive and accessible as possible, encouraging clients to support the adaptation and removal of physical barriers wherever practicable. I currently sit on the National Register of Access Consultants (NRAC) Advisory Group, promoting access and inclusive design accreditation.

I'm also the external examiner for the University of Plymouth on their Building Surveying, Quantity Surveying, and Construction Project Management degree courses.

Integrating accessibility and inclusive design into construction projects

I promote statutory and best practice design guidance documents to my teams. I created a national network for our Project & Programme Services Property team to support accessible and inclusive design. Our goal is to help individuals achieve accredited consultant status with the NRAC. And therefore deliver a more inclusive environment and solutions for our clients

We've made significant impacts on various projects, such as the Exeter City Football Club, where we advised installing a 'changing places' facility in their new stand. This facility supports fans and families needing extra space and equipment.

At the University of Exeter, we provided accessible temporary facilities for a disabled student to graduate with their peers, which are now used in multiple graduation ceremonies.

Overcoming challenges in advocating for accessibility and inclusive design

Key challenges include cost and perceived lack of need by estates' managers and clients. In line with our #DifferentMakesADifference commitment to become a voice for change, we overcome this by engaging with local access groups to better understand their lived experiences. It's crucial to demonstrate the human impact of physical barriers.

Another challenge is being asked for support once a budget and outline design has been set and signed off with the client. If access and inclusive design specialists were integrated with the design team from the outset, any issues or principles could be integrated into the wider project ethos and generally at minimal additional cost.

My experience with the Enable network and its impact on accessibility at work

Enable is a friendly, vibrant employee resource group (ERG) that shares ideas, information, and news relevant to anyone affected by disability or health conditions. Being part of this community has been a learning experience, understanding personal perspectives and making small changes that have a big impact.

I've supported the development of reasonable adjustments passports for employees and reviews of our offices to ensure accessible and inclusive facilities. This ongoing exercise highlights barriers and offers managed solutions where physical barriers cannot be overcome.

How engineers can become advocates for accessibility and inclusive design

Walk a mile in someone else's shoes. Consider the impact of decisions on clients and projects daily. Engage with broader best practice design guidance and local access groups as key stakeholders from the outset of any larger project.

Passionate about accessible and inclusive design? Search our fantastic roles at AtkinsRéalis. And when you join us, reach out to me. I'll be happy to help you achieve your NRAC accreditation!