We need to talk about DEI in UK PR. No. Not that conversation.
Not the hand-wringing, self-flagellation and constant refrain that we need to do better (though we should be concerned, self-critical and do better).
Instead, here’s a rare moment of light, joy and, most importantly, impact.
Last week, Amber Ellis, Jenny Fieldgate, Laura K., Paul Nolan, Tom Broughton and I made the epic journey across the street to celebrate five years of The Blueprint, the “kite mark” for DEI in the PR industry. Hell, I’ll call it what it really is: the GOLD STANDARD in PR DEI. Something that moved us at CCGroup, a Hoffman Agency from talking about diversity to acting on diversity. As Laura said, The Blueprint is like DEI sat nav. It tells you where to go and how to get there.
Sure, it was a lovely event. But Elizabeth Bananuka did something very brave. She commissioned independent research into the impact of The Blueprint. She showed her receipts:
Impact on individuals (in Blueprinted agencies):
- 71% saw improved inclusivity in their organizations
- 69% saw an increase in diverse job applicants
- 63% of BME respondents saw a positive impact on their career progression
Impact on Blueprinted organizations:
- 91% saw positive effects on company culture
- 75% saw their reputation improve
- 75% saw positive feedback from clients on their award
All that in less than five years. The Blueprint is making a difference. A real difference. Wow.
Let me finish with something important. Something that grinds my gears. Five years after The Blueprint’s launch, only six agencies are fully Blueprinted, with three more Blueprint Allies. So, two questions:
- If you’re senior in an agency, why aren’t YOU Blueprinted? Your staff will love you, you’ll be able to hire better talent and your work product will improve.
- If you’re in-house, why aren’t YOU insisting that your agencies seriously demonstrate their commitment to diversity? You’ll find a happier bunch of people, doing better work.
I’m genuinely interested. Let me know.
Kudos to Elizabeth and their team for continuing to fight the good fight. We are proud to be #Blueprinted.
Check out the full report — and The Blueprint application form, because you really should take a look and see what you’re missing.
