More than 700 communications professionals have taken part in a survey about diversity in the UK local public sector communications industry. A total of 727 responses were received.
LGcomms ran the survey, the first of its kind, to gain a better understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion in our teams across the country. The survey was open to anyone working in local public sector communications, including local councils, police, NHS, fire and rescue services and national park authorities.
The survey was opened in early July and closed yesterday (Sunday 7 August). The responses will now be analysed, and the results shared in the Autumn.
Alix Macfarlane, LGcomms Joint Chair, said, “Thank you to everyone who took part. Your views will help shape the future of our profession. Exploring where we are at now is key to making effective future improvements.
It is very important for communications teams in the public sector to represent the communities they serve. It is also important that our profession is populated by and led by people from diverse backgrounds and with different life experiences.
“Armed with a clear picture of the state of diversity and inclusion in our profession, and working with under-represented groups and comms leaders, we can develop resources and initiatives to support our membership and the wider sector to improve diversity and inclusion in our profession.
“We’ll share more information about the outcome from the survey as soon as possible in the Autumn. We’ll also continue to seek out more information and ideas for improving our sector for the future.”
Background information:
- LGcommunications (LGcomms) is a national body made up of an association of organisations working together to raise the standard of communications in the public sector.
- In 2020, LGcomms introduced a diversity and inclusion mission statement along with actions to tackle inequality. This survey has been developed as part of this ongoing work to prioritise Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in the organisation and the industry.
- LGcomms’ diversity and inclusion mission statement reads, “Creating an inclusive future for public sector communications. Representing, valuing and celebrating diverse backgrounds and experiences.”
- Survey participants were given the option of submitting their details to enter a prize draw to win a £50 high street shopping voucher. The draw will take place in the week ahead and the winner notified by email.