With the holiday period well underway, the expectation to feel festive can be overwhelming for those suffering with their mental health. This combined with the cost-of-living crisis and an increase in loneliness, can make Christmas challenging.
Home building is one of the industries most impacted by poor mental health with two construction workers taking their own lives every working day. We want to ensure workers know that they are never alone, and help is always available.
HBF is continuing to partner with the Lighthouse Club Construction Industry charity and spread the good work the charity is doing to provide emotional, physical and financial wellbeing support not only to construction workers, but to their families too. The Lighthouse Club provides many ways for workers to access support including calling their free 24/7 helpline – 0345 605 1956, and for those who may not feel comfortable speaking on the phone, support can be accessed through the self-support app (available on IOS and Android) and text message by texting HARDHAT to 85258.
A special seasonal campaign ‘Coping during the Holiday Season’ has also been launched and includes a wealth of useful information and practical tips, such as how to be more financially responsible and setting budgets during this festive period.
Mental health awareness has and will continue to be a priority for HBF as we enter 2024. Through our mental health awareness work, we have worked closely with our members to help erode the stigma around mental health, but there is still a considerable way to go.
Support is always available. If you or one of your colleagues is struggling, the Lighthouse Club has a range of supportive material that can make a difference.
Have a good Christmas and a Happy New Year and remember it is good to talk and ask for help if needed.