Mental health awareness in the construction industry

Mind BLMK’s Market Development Manager, Jeanette Skipsey recently met with site manager, Philip Gormley, and his team from McAleer & Rushe at their Milton Keynes site. Jeanette delivered a talk about mental health and the challenges faced within the construction industry, and explained how to reach out to others who may need support with their emotional wellbeing.

This was arranged as part of McAleer & Rushe’s wider campaign as a company to break down the stigma around talking about mental health within the construction industry. Philip presented Jeanette with a £170.00 donation to support the work that Mind BLMK undertakes in mental health and wellbeing.

Why construction?

Male site workers in construction are three times more likely to complete suicide than the average UK male. This shocking mental health statistic is a vivid reminder of the difficulties faced by many working in the construction industry every day.

The construction industry lifestyle is unquestionably both challenging and stressful, with workers often working away from home for lengthy periods, and with long and demanding hours. The workforce is predominantly male and the image portrayed to the outside world is that of the ‘tough guy’. Reaching out and asking for emotional support is not often a natural occurrence by those working in the industry.

If you work in the construction industry and you need support with your emotional and physical wellbeing, a new, confidential 24/7 Construction Industry Helpline is now available to the industry’s workforce and their families in the UK and Ireland. The Construction Industry Helpline is supported and marketed by the Considerate Constructors Scheme. Whether you’re an employer or an employee, the helpline provides the first point of contact for those who need to access a range of completely confidential support services. You can access the service via the website or by downloading their free app (just click on the picture).