GRD:EDI – Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
The World is for EVERYONE
GRD:EDI, led by Richie Dryden, provides professional consultancy to assist with ensuring that architectural and construction projects meet the highest standards of Equality, Disability, and Inclusion (EDI).
With extensive experience and industry-recognised qualifications, Richie advises design teams, developers, and organisations on creating environments that not only meet required standards and specifications, but are totally inclusive for all users.
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Design Appraisals
Assessing plans for accessibility and inclusion.
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Disability Access & Inclusion Strategies
Developing tailored strategies for projects.
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Technical Guidance
Advising on best practices and compliance.
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Disability & Equality Access Audits
Conducting thorough audits of existing and planned spaces.
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Policy & Procedure Development
Creating frameworks to support inclusive design.
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Training & Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
Educating professionals on EDI best practices.
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Professional Witness Services & Support
Providing expert testimony and guidance in legal matters.
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Equality Impact Assessments
Ensuring projects consider and address diverse user needs.
Richie Dryden: GRD:EDI Projects Director
Richie Dryden is recognised as one of the most qualified and accredited Disability Access & Inclusion Specialists in the UK.
The consultancy’s professional services assist clients in identifying accessibility issues early, ensuring that solutions are practical, budget-conscious, and meet the highest quality standards.
Richie is a Consultant Member of the National Register of Access Consultants (NRAC), holding a Postgraduate Diploma in Design & Management of Inclusive Environments and qualifications in the Intersection of Dementia & Design from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).
Who we’ve worked with and for:
Case Studies
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Manchester Metropolitan University – SODA / FSE / LTP
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University of Manchester – Fallowfield Halls of Residence
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North Manchester General Hospital
Testimonials
“Richard, great to be working with you again: Your input on this £500M development at the University of Manchester has brought significant benefit. The client is very impressed by our efforts and understanding of all things regarding disability and inclusion. This has instilled a confidence in the development of a design strategy that exceeds requirements and avoids wasted efforts resulting from misunderstanding statutory compliance requirements.”
Neil McFarlane: Strategic Development Director – GRAHAM Investment Projects
“Richard is very knowledgeable and is able to cover all areas Disability Access & Inclusion requirements, rather than single disability groups, therefore providing a balanced approach: Value adding and real value for money, notably on large multi-million-pound capital schemes”
Helen Hatcher: Senior Project Manager – Manchester Metropolitan University
“Richard, of GRD:EDI can identify relevant standards (where applicable), as well as considering life-cycle requirements for the 'live' asset.
Richard has excellent experience working with architects to deliver highly complex buildings that respond to demanding briefs, covering. a range of disability and equality related requirements. Richard provides clear advice and is always mindful of budget and commercial constraints. Richard is a highly recommended consultant"