The latest course in our planned training programme for our staff was mental health awareness training with the charity MIND.
Unfortunately, the frequency of mental health issues is increasing within the construction industry. In fact, one study found that one in five construction workers struggle with mental health issues. As a result of this, the Company has placed great importance on improving everyone’s awareness of mental health. When you think about construction hazards, physical risks would probably top the list for most companies and they would be very good at mitigating those. The whole problem with mental health is that the hazards are not easy to spot and remain undiagnosed with staff not receiving the support they need.
“We hope that with this training we have made a great step forward in improving our outreach and support of mental health issues and from May 2019, which is ‘Mental Health Awareness Month’, we can make our workplace a happier and safer place to be” (Mike Brown, Geo-Environmental Commercial Director).
MORE ABOUT MIND
MIND provides advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. They campaign to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding.
“We won’t give up until everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets support and respect” (www.mind.org.uk/about-us/what-we-do)
A crucial area of MIND’s focus is in the workplace, to provide training and consultancy support.
“Poor mental health is now the number one reason for staff absence. Mental health training from Mind offers a cost-effective way to promote mental wellbeing in your organisation and at home” (https://www.mind.org.uk/workplace/training-consultancy)
MORE ON MENTAL HEALTH IN CONSTRUCTION SEE: https://www.gesl.net/2018/09/06/mental-health-in-construction/