RIBA launch a restructured Architects for Change

Date:

29 April 2008

Press office contact:

Mina Vadon
T: +44 (0)207 307 3761
E: mina.vadon@inst.riba.org

At an event yesterday, the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) launched a restructured Architects for Change (AfC) group to continue the work of the Equality Taskforce (EQTF), which was established last year.

The Architects for Change group welcomed Shula Slater as the new co-chair of the group. Helen Taylor, present co-chair of AfC will remain in post to support the group.

The EQTF was set up at the request of the AfC Executive Group to review their future format, as the RIBA framework for promoting improved equality and diversity in the profession. AfC had guided and coordinated RIBA action on equal opportunities since 2000, forging links across RIBA departments and external equality and diversity partners.

In 2008, the EQTF will hand over a number of projects for development by the AfC Executive Committee, in association with like-minded partners with expertise and funding to support successful completion.

These projects include:

partnering with the Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust to deliver a mentoring scheme for 16-19 year olds
a CPD course for practitioners returning after a career break at London Metropolitan University
a proposal for the RIBA to stay in touch with those on a break
a research project looking into disability and inclusion in the profession.

RIBA President Sunand Prasad said:

"Striving for equality of access to education and jobs, and arguing for diversity has nothing to do with political correctness: it does concern justice, but it goes further. If those designing and making buildings were as varied as those who use and experience them we should have a better understanding of how to create the best buildings and places. The work of the EQTF has refocused the RIBA's work in this area, and we look forward to working with AfC on their commendable projects."

Shula Slater, new co-chair of AfC said:

"I am delighted to be so closely involved in the work of Architects for Change and looking forward immensely to the successful realisation of the four key projects already set in place. The RIBA is uniquely positioned to raise awareness of how and why change can be made; through AfC, the architecture community has an opportunity to really make a difference."

Notes to editors

1. For further press information contact Mina Vadon in the RIBA press office, on 020 7307 3761 or email mina.vadon@inst.riba.org|

2. Shula Slater is Design Manager with the Royal Bank of Scotland Group Workplace UK, Europe and Asia, and a passionate advocate for the promotion of diversity in business, with first hand knowledge of the benefits for productivity, motivation and business relevance this extends to the profession. With an MA in Interior and Environmental Design from Manchester, and a BA in Interior and Furniture Design from Dundee, she is a co-professional and Affiliate Member of the RIBA, who brings extensive chairing and project and organisational development experience to her role as co-chair of AfC

3. 'Architects for Change' (AfC) was founded in 2000 as the RIBA equality and diversity member forum. As such, AfC advises and challenges the RIBA on equality and diversity issues, initiates research and development projects, and provides a support network and a voice for under-represented groups within the profession.

In terms of organisation, AfC operates as an 'umbrella group', with representation from Women in Architecture, Society of Black Architects and ARCHAOS Student Forum. AfC member networks sit alongside, and increasingly link to, other specialist and branch RIBA networks. AfC activity is directed and coordinated by the AfC Executive Group. Whilst formally a subcommittee of the RIBA Education Committee, and receiving staff support from RIBA Education, it has links with RIBA staff and members throughout the RIBA.