October 10th marks World Mental Health Day, and at Jewson we feel we have a part to play in raising awareness, addressing the stigma of poor mental health and improving the positive wellbeing of those people who come into to contact with us.
For that reason, we invited Mates in Mind to Jewson Live in 2017.
Who are Mates in Mind?
Mates in Mind are a registered charity devoted to getting people in the construction industry talking about mental health. With their tireless hard work, they have gained over 150 supporters and partners in their first year as a registered charity. They have reached over 150,000 workers and delivered training to almost 28,000 of those. Long-term, they have big plans – to reach 75% of the construction industry by 2025.
In December 2017 we invited Clive Johnson – Chair of the Health in Construction Leadership Group and Founding Partner of Mates in Mind – to Jewson Live. Here’s a clip of what Clive had to say about mental health and what we can do today to make a difference.
But why focus on the construction industry?
The construction industry accounts for more than 6% of the UK’s jobs – that’s over 2 million workers. This workforce is one that is predominantly male and this particular line of work has a particular range of factors that are widely recognised as stressors.
Those working in construction tend to work long hours on physically and mentally demanding tasks, often away from their families for long periods of time. Those who own their own businesses also face the added financial and work-life balance pressures that come with it.
All of the above have contributed to the fact that more people in construction die from suicide than they do from falls.
What next?
If you would like more information on Mates in Mind and the fantastic work they are doing, please visit their website at https://www.matesinmind.org.
Clive Johnson will also be returning to Jewson Live 2018 in December, please click here to register your interest.
In terms of what you can do today as an individual who may work with those struggling with mental health – grab a brew and #GetTalking to your mates. It may have a bigger impact than you think.
