RIBA Presidential Taskforce meets to tackle unhealthy work culture in architectural practices

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has launched a taskforce of leading industry figures to address the serious issues that came to light in its recent survey among staff in RIBA registered practices.

The Presidential Taskforce on Workplace Wellbeing, which is chaired by RIBA President Muyiwa Oki has held its first meeting and will address the issues which were highlighted in the RIBA Workplace Conditions and Wellbeing Report.

The members of the RIBA Presidential Taskforce are:

• Alastair Blyth, Assistant Head and Employability Director, School of Architecture and Cities, University of Westminster

• Karen Mosley, Social Impact and Inclusion Director, HLM Architects

• Muyiwa Oki (Chair), RIBA President

• Julia Simet, Global Talent Officer and Co-Regional Managing Principal Europe, Gensler

• Hugh Simpson, Chief Executive Officer, Architects Registration Board (ARB)

• Su Stringfellow, Director, Harrison Stringfellow Architects

• Andrew Thomas, Managing Partner of Grimshaw London studios

• Rion Willard, Architect and architecture business consultant

Ongoing it will concentrate on developing recommendations and practical guidance to help drive improvements across the industry in the following areas:

• Work-life balance and sustainable working hours

• Equity and fair pay, including the Real Living Wage for all roles

• Inclusive cultures that support wellbeing and dignity

• Sustainable and ethical business practices across all scales of practice

RIBA President Muyiwa Oki, said: “This taskforce is about the future competitiveness of the architecture profession. One that is decent and dynamic.

“Architects across the UK are telling us the same thing, the current culture is not working. It’s time to take action and build a profession that values people as much as projects.

“This is about futureproofing our profession. When we address the culture of being overworked and underpaid, we don’t just improve wellbeing, we enhance creativity, safeguard public safety, and earn the trust of those we design for.

“Workplace wellbeing is more than a nice-to-have. It's essential to the survival and success of architecture. We’re committed to doing the hard work. Change is coming.”

The next phase of the taskforce’s work will involve investigate specific issues in detail, conduct evidence sessions, discovery workshops, and engagement with experts.

A national call for evidence will be launched in the coming months recognising those practices which are already benefiting from positive workplace cultures and what can be learnt from them. The group will ensure that all its recommendations are scalable, practical, and relevant to practices of all sizes and locations.