Engineering Change: Leading the Way in Breaking Down Barriers to Opportunity
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Curtins, in partnership with The Purpose Coalition, are proud to launch the Breaking Down Barriers Impact Report. This impactful report, as part of The Purpose Coalition’s Breaking Down Barriers Commission, highlights Curtins’ commitment to fostering a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable society by leveraging our engineering expertise to create real change across the UK.
The report was officially launched at Westminster at a special event on Monday 18th November, hosted by the Rt Hon Justine Greening, and with invited special guests from Curtins, our industry colleagues, The Purpose Coalition businesses and MPs.
The report demonstrates Curtins’ proactive steps to address social mobility challenges, showcasing initiatives like the Step Ahead Programme and Academy Programme that create accessible pathways for talent from diverse backgrounds and foster career progression in engineering. This partnership exemplifies our dedication to building sustainable communities and setting a new standard in social impact across the engineering industry.
Rt Hon Justine Greening, Chair of The Purpose Coalition, said: “Curtins stands out as an example of purpose-led leadership in engineering, proving that a company’s values can align seamlessly with its operations to drive positive change. The initiatives within this report, including their innovative reverse mentoring programme, embody Curtins’ commitment to dismantling internal and external barriers to opportunity. By championing inclusivity and creating real pathways for social mobility, Curtins is leading the way in building a more equitable society.”
Nick Forbes CBE, Chair of the Breaking Down Barriers Commission, added: “Breaking down barriers is a shared responsibility. Curtins’ work, as outlined in this report, exemplifies the power of collaboration between businesses, government, and communities. By aligning with the UK’s mission to advance social mobility, Curtins demonstrates how purpose-driven enterprises can be pivotal partners in creating a future where opportunity is accessible to all.”
Curtins’ CEO, Rob Melling, reflected on our journey and future impact: “This report is a testament to our commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where all colleagues can thrive. Seeing Curtins benchmarked against the Purpose Goals is a proud moment, showing that our dedication goes beyond engineering excellence to make a tangible, lasting impact in the communities we serve. Our commitment to breaking down barriers will continue to grow, guided by a shared vision of inclusion and social progress.”
Rhiannon Carss, Communications Director at Curtins, speaking at the launch, said: “This report highlights not only the progress Curtins has made but also the urgent need for systemic change across the wider industry. Our recommendation to address menstrual health and women’s equity within the construction industry is a call to action for policymakers. By embedding menstrual health provisions into industry health and safety standards and championing inclusive policies, we can challenge outdated norms and create workplaces that truly reflect modern needs. We urge policymakers and industry leaders to collaborate on setting clear standards that reduce stigma, support wellbeing, and enable women to thrive in every sector.”
This report highlights our achievements and sets a benchmark for other organisations looking to embed purpose into their operations. As we continue to drive impactful change, this partnership with The Purpose Coalition underscores the power of business as a force for good.
A Little About The Purpose Coalition
The Purpose Coalition is a cross-party, cross-sector alliance of businesses and leaders dedicated to improving social mobility and breaking down barriers to opportunity. Led by Rt Hon Justine Greening, the Coalition leverages the Purpose Goals to inspire and measure progress in advancing social equity.
