O’Brien is aware that construction work has a variety of pressures, from tight contracts to long hours, time away from loved ones and managing budgets, not to mention the rising costs of supplies. Knowing just how critical mental health awareness and support are to a workforce is essential. Below is our approach to mental health and wellbeing at O’Brien.
“Men in the UK are three times more likely to die by suicide than women. However, in construction – a male dominated industry– men are three times more likely to die by suicide than the national average for men.”
Our approach to Mental Health & Wellbeing at Work…
Listed here are some of the areas we have worked on in the last couple of years to increase our support for our workforce at O’Brien Contractors:
We offer access to the “Construction Industry Helpline App” The app is the ultimate self-help tool and is aimed at those who would like more information about how they can help themselves or if necessary, take the next step in seeking professional help.
Here at O’Brien’s, we have a number of Mental Health First Aiders, our “Mental Health Champions,” who are specifically trained in helping anyone who may need support, ensuring that out workforce always have a trained representative to offer advice and listen when it is needed.
“Building Mental Health Framework” is an initiative we have adopted, with our teams committing to the principles of the building mental health charter, which include areas such as reducing stigma and discrimination and encouraging open conversations while at work.
We ensure that our workforce communications always include a recommendation or links to helpful information should it be needed. Our dedicated page “Help Under the Hard Hat” is there specifically to offer this. Our Toolbox talks are specifically focused around these areas.
One of our chosen charities who helps us with our communication is a charity we support through O’Brien Charitable Trust is “Lighthouse Club.” They offer a helpline and are committed to helping the construction industry tackle its mental health. This is charity receives no public funding and relies on the generosity of those within in the industry to help to continue its vital work.
Additional Links to Information & Help:
See link to the Construction Industry Helpline App and how to find it: click here.
See the Lighthouse Club here: click here.
Source for article information and facts: click here.