There are many misconceptions and misunderstandings about mental health which have fuelled much of the stigma associated with it. According to a survey carried out by Construction News last year, 30% of respondents have taken time off due to mental health issues including stress. Of these respondents, 63% did not tell their employer the reason for their absence was mental health.

The aim of these Mental Health First Aid training courses is to give attendees the knowledge and confidence to recognise signs of mental health problems and encouraging those in need to seek the right help. It is important that as employers we create an environment where staff feel able to talk openly about issues they are facing. This is even more important in typically male-dominated sectors like construction, as we know that, on the whole, men are less likely to speak up and seek support if they’re struggling with their mental health.

To date, 22 members of staff have completed Mental Health First Aid training in conjunction with Birmingham Mind and Mental Health First Aid England. Well done to you all. We will be rolling out further training in the near future.