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PATH National project: 'Tomorrow's Planners' Programme

PATH National, The Planning Inspectorate and The Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) have been working together to develop the 'Tomorrow's Planners' initiative which aims to increase the representation of people from Black and Minority Ethnic backgrounds in the Planning Profession over the next ten years.

The recognition of all cultures, their inclusion in the mainstream and positive management of diversity are key drivers for the UK in the new century, to ensure that our society continues to evolve for the benefit of all. The built environment is a common resource and must satisfy the needs and aspirations of society through the planning process.

'Tomorrow's Planners' will improve multi-cultural representation in planning through:

The use of positive action training programmes (section 37 and 38 RRA 1976 - Amendment 2000) which provide access to opportunities for people from Black and Minority Ethnic groups in professions where they are under represented.
Raising awareness of the planning process and the individuals can play in that process to influence the evolution of the built environment.

"PATH National is in its fifth year of partnership with the Planning Inspectorate. We have worked with the DCLG and other employers to provide career opportunities in the planning profession for people from the Black and Minority Ethnic Communities. Since the scheme was piloted in 2002, PATH have been successful in recruiting 81 Trainee Planners. To date over 25% of the trainees have secured full time employment within the planning profession as a consequence of this programme. The results are pleasing, it is evident the programme will go a long way in promoting a sustainable and diverse workforce within the sector.

With over 20 years experience in skills development, mentoring and other support programmes, we are pleased to be supporting an initiative that provides quality training and employment opportunities for our clients."

Tony Wilson
Project Manager
PATH National Ltd

"We believe the Inspectorate profession should respond to and reflect the community it serves, both in the way it conducts its business and in the makeup of its staff. That is the basis on which we embarked on the Tomorrow's Planners initiative. We started on a journey to become an organisation which encourages diversity, by setting the highest standards for ourselves and acting as an example to others.

...we were not content to rest there. As one of the leading employers of planners in the UK, the Planning Inspectorate is determined to encourage others to make the same commitment. We have formed a partnership with PATH to bring in more host organisations and to encourage candidates from minority communities to become trainee planners. We have been delighted with the high calibre of candidates that we have been attracting since the programme's launch. The example of their skills and commitment will help to encourage others form minority communities to join the profession. We look forward with confidence, working alongside PATH, to a successful future for the initiative."

Katrine Sporle
Chief Executive
The Planning Inspectorate