A website has been launched as part of a campaign to reduce suicides and improve wellbeing in the construction industry.
The Portal Make it visible it offers access to information, advice and guidance, and is a free helpline.
Its content, based on research carried out by the Lighthouse Club Construction Industry Charity, includes sections on emotional, physical and financial wellbeing.
Within each are learning and self-help tools, as well as suggested ways for people to assess whether they need further professional help, such as depression. A map of Lighthouse Beacons (self-help groups) is included for those working outside the home to find others to talk to in a non-judgmental environment.
Figures from the Office for National Statistics show that people working in construction are three times more likely to take their own lives than those in other industries. Every working day, two construction workers commit suicide in the UK and Ireland.
The website has been developed with funding from the Construction Industry Training Board and is monitored by Lighthouse. It is part of the Make it Visible initiativewhich brings together contractors, clients and professional bodies to tackle the industry’s poor mental health record.
Lighthouse chief executive Bill Hill said: “This portal is for everyone in our industry, especially those working in trades and agencies, who often have nowhere to turn for help in a crisis.
“It’s been created by industry, funded by industry for all the workforce and their families who work in our industry.”
The portal has been developed as a website rather than an app to ensure that anyone with a smartphone or computer can fully access it, regardless of the device or browser they use.
Hill added: “Every physical security measure is taken to protect our workers, but while we’ve been shouting safety, we’ve been whispering health.
“If you’re not on top of your game and you’re struggling emotionally, physically, or financially, makeitvisible.info will give you instant access to information, advice and guidance, and a pathway to free support.”
An online launch event, hosted by the School of Supply Chain Sustainability, was recently held and attended by over 280 people.
Last year, Construction news‘ Mind Matters survey found that a third of construction workers have avoided taking time off despite struggling with stress and mental health issues. Of those who did take their time59 percent avoided telling their employer why.
