Michael Barratt MBE has worked for Transport for London (TfL) for 25 years, advancing to senior roles focused on reducing construction disruption, improving public transport reliability, and ensuring accessibility for all. In his current construction advisory and innovations lead role, he develops strategies to minimise the impact of major developments, prioritising safety, security, disability equality, and environmental protection. Michael also supports staff within TfL’s LGBTQ community and raises awareness of White Ribbon Promise (never to use, excuse or remain silent about male violence against women), through running sessions facilitating open and honest conversations on behaviours and attitudes amongst construction industry staff, aiming to change mindsets, step up and educate, and be an active bystander.
“Spending time listening to people’s experiences is crucial for understanding their challenges. Being aware of different cultures and behaviours allows us to reflect and promote mindset and behaviour changes effectively.”
Educational background and career to date
I left school in 1985 with minimal qualifications and attended college for two years, where I achieved five O-Levels, despite challenges from neurodiverse conditions. My early career was varied, including roles in sales, construction, care, and logistics, such as cleaner, postal worker, carer, tyre fitter, security operative, debt collector, lorry driver, forklift driver, courier, fitness instructor, classroom assistant, chauffeur, and warehouse worker.
I began as agency staff for the Traffic Director for London (TDfL) in 1999 as a traffic surveyor, benefiting from mentorship. In 2000, Transport for London (TfL) was established, and through their educational support, I gained qualifications in traffic engineering, advancing to senior/principal engineer. By 2016, I was promoted to construction advisory and innovations manager, a role I continue to hold today. My focus is on finding innovative ways to reduce roadwork disruption and support pedestrians and cyclists. In 2017, I was honoured with an MBE for my work enhancing London’s safety and accessibility.
Overview of TfL’s scale and remit
TfL is an integrated transport authority managing most of London’s transport network, delivering the Mayor’s Transport Strategy to achieve 80% of journeys by foot, cycle, or public transport by 2041. TfL oversees the operation of London’s public transport, including over 9,000 buses, Victoria Coach Station, Santander Cycles, and manages London’s piers, Woolwich Ferry, and the IFS Cloud Cable Car. Additionally, TfL regulates the taxi and private hire industry and rental e-scooters.
Day-to-day responsibilities
In my role, each day is unique, involving discussions on designs, site visits to assess safety and accessibility, writing reports, providing training, mentoring colleagues, chairing forums, and meeting various business organisations and communities. My work ensures that walking and cycling perspectives are considered, enhancing safety and accessibility in all projects.
From an inclusion perspective, I prioritise empathy, engaging with each team member to understand their passions, hobbies, and lifestyles. We connect outside the office to share personal experiences, promoting inclusivity through professional development. This approach helps us better represent those facing access barriers, influencing how we communicate and drive change.
Attending the Womathology Inclusion Thought Leaders’ Event
I attended the recently Womanthology Inclusion Thought Leaders’ Event ahead of International Women’s Day 2024 at the invitation of a visually impaired team member. The event covered sensitive topics, offering opportunities to meet new people and expand my understanding. I’m honoured to be a male ally of gender balance in the organisation and this event allowed me to stay ahead of new developments and increase my understanding of the challenges faced by professional women across all sectors.
Spending time listening to people’s experiences is crucial for understanding their challenges. Being aware of different cultures and behaviours allows us to reflect and promote mindset and behaviour changes effectively.
Advice for men serving as allies to women and underrepresented groups
My advice to other male allies of inclusion is to recognise our differences, listen actively, and practice empathy and reflection. Use this insight to improve personally and share knowledge with colleagues at work, home, and also in the community. Regularly seek feedback, learn from it, and apply new approaches.
Seeking feedback should be ongoing. Actively seeking input from colleagues and peers allows us to learn from diverse perspectives, refining our approaches and contributing more effectively to inclusive practices. Sharing our knowledge and experiences with others further enhances the impact of our allyship, creating ripple effects that nurture a culture of inclusion beyond our immediate circles.
How the Womanthology community can engage with TfL
TfL host forums, site walks, and talks to share best practices with the construction industry and invite others to join us in our initiatives. This is an excellent opportunity for collaboration with the Womanthology community so please get in touch if you’d be interested in taking part in any of our activities.
Future projects and aspirations
Looking ahead, I am currently engaged in a project focused on analysing the impact of all types of temporary roadworks and construction hoardings on accessibility. This research aims to uncover insights that will inform policies and practices, ensuring infrastructure developments consider the diverse needs of all community members. I anticipate publishing a comprehensive report later this year, which I hope will contribute to ongoing dialogues and decision-making processes in urban planning and transportation.
Furthermore, I am honoured to have been nominated as an EDI (Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion) advocate at the Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation (CIHT). This role provides a platform to advocate for inclusive practices within the transportation sector and beyond. It is a privilege to use this platform to promote findings from my research and collaborate with industry stakeholders to foster a more inclusive and accessible built environment.
