But what about the dangers we can’t see?
At Ardmac, we are all very aware of the physical risks and on-site threats. We put Safety First in everything we do. But what about the dangers we can’t see? Depression, Anxiety, Stress and Suicidal Thoughts are just as dangerous as the tangible on-site hazards.
Over the past number of years there has been an increasing number of employees in the construction industry suffering from mental health issues. A 2020 study found that 83% of construction workers have experienced a mental health issue. Mental health issues are indiscriminatory and affect people in all roles. We place huge focus on regulations and on-site safety but mental health needs to be prioritised just as highly as wearing a hard hat or protective goggles.
That’s why this year, Ardmac have chosen their 3 charity partners with a focus on mental health; Pieta House, Manchester Mind and The Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity. Ardmac is aiming to help tackle this issue by increasing awareness of the mental health issues within the construction industry, providing the support and resources for our staff and raising vital funds for our charity partners.
Pieta House has helped over 58,000 people to date in suicidal distress or engaging in self-harm. The charity provides a free of charge professional one-to-one therapeutic service, staffed by over 200 therapists, for people who are experiencing suicidal ideation, people who have attempted suicide and people who are engaging in self-harm.
Manchester Mind marked 30 years in September of delivering mental health support to the people of Manchester. It is committed to improving the lives of people with mental health needs in the area and delivers a wide range of services to support people’s mental health. Last year, over 6,500 people received support, information and training from Manchester Mind.
And finally, this is our first year partnering with Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity. This is a charity organisation who specialise in supporting construction workers and their families through financial, family and mental health problems. They have a 24/7 Construction Industry Helpline for those who would like to speak with someone in a confidential manner.
