The Business Visits and Events Partnership (BVEP) are committed to increasing inclusion and diversity in the UK events industry. Focus is currently on those working in some capacity in events. An initial workshop was held by Ashanti Bentil-Dhue of Diversity Ally (https://www.diversityally.co.uk/) to explain diversity and inclusion and the need for action rather than just words. This was followed up by a series of virtual workshops to understand the current situation and agree actions for change. These workshops were run using Axis (https://www.axis-workshops.com), a digital platform for workshop-based collaboration.
As a result of these workshops, BVEP agreed the following DEI action plan:
- BVEP to develop a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Commitment Statement that all Partners sign up to.
- To add a Skills & Talent tab to the BVEP webpage to bring together thought pieces, reports and Partner actions, especially on DEI.
- Investigate shadow board and means of engaging a broader membership to become more diverse and to support role models and progression.
- DEI sub-group of the S&TWG who will advise and support action on the output from the workshops.
- Support and promote activities and initiatives of those working in events e.g. Event First Steps, DiversityAlly, Attitude is Everything, Fast Forward 15, Women in Exhibitions, Elevate, DICE and Diversity in Conferences and Events. Work with allied organisations e.g. WiHLT, UK Music.
- Research - better understanding and evidence of cultures and barriers. Building the case for DEI in events. Support research being undertaken by others e.g. Event First Steps, Attitude is Everything, UK Music, WiHLT, EventWell, StressMatters.