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Construction trades
Running a business in construction can be stressful with long hours, juggling intense workloads. According to Mates in Mind, workplace stress is being felt like never before within small, micro and sole trader businesses. The Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity report that the highest number of calls to their helpline were from labourers and finishing trades.
There are three main reasons employers should look to prevent work-related stress and support good mental health; it’s the law, it’s good for business and it’s the right thing to do.
No matter the size of the business, the law requires all employers to prevent work related stress to support good mental health. That means making sure that risks of stress and mental ill–health are factored into health and safety risk assessments at an organisational level and acted upon.
Failing to manage stress at work can cost employers in reduced productivity, sickness absence, or even losing a valued member of the team.
Where to begin?
We need to make it routine to talk about stress and mental health at work.
- Register for Working Minds’ online learning and get started today
- download a risk assessment template and see some examples
- Download the Construction Talking Toolkit for small businesses with a regular workforce (employed and contracted) to help structure conversations
- print out / share our campaign resources round up
- print out / display our Working Minds 5 steps poster
- sign up to the monthly e-bulletin.
Help is available
If you or someone you know needs help or support, reach out and ask how they are feeling and coping.
Services offered by campaign partners include:
Mates in Mind charity can provide can also offer advice to organisations through their Supporter Programme or
- individuals can text “BeAMate” to 85258 to access free and confidential mental health support service from trained volunteers.
- download managing and reducing workplace stress handbook.
- Read the blog How are you really? by former MD, Sarah Meek.
The Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity provides free support services to any construction worker or their family including;
- 24/7 Construction Industry Helpline, call 0345 605 1956
- Text HARDHAT to 85258 f you’re uncomfortable talking and would rather text
- Free Construction Industry Helpline mobile app.
Every Mind Matters (NHS) offers a free personalised Mind Plan for tips and advice to help you look after your mental health. Just answer 5 questions online.
Chris’ story
Mates in Mind has released a short video, created in partnership with the family of Chris, a 30- year veteran of the construction industry who suffered a mental health crisis brought on by severe stress.
Trigger warning: please note, the following video includes mention of suicide and may be upsetting.
Contact Details
Corporate Communications
2.2 Redgrave Court
Merton Rd
Bootle
L20 7HS
2.2 Redgrave Court
Merton Rd
Bootle
L20 7HS
