The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has pledged its continuing support to training and understanding in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Week.

A study compiled by the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity and CITB, highlighted the toll poor mental health is taking: Research showed 26% of construction workers had experienced suicidal thoughts and 91% felt overwhelmed. Tragically two construction workers take their own lives each day.

CITB has already partnered with Laing O'Rourke, the Lighthouse Club and Samaritans to train 8000 mental health first aiders in the work place making mental health information and support, accessible and relatable to small and medium construction employers. CITB is set to announce further support for an initiative which will include apprentices.

Since 2018, CITB has awarded £1,550,396 of funding to mental health projects. And over £1.3m in grants have been paid to support mental health first aid and awareness courses and mental health champions, supporting nearly 950 employers.

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CITB, CEO Tim Balcon said: "I am under no illusion that there are many reasons why construction has a poor record on mental health. Factors include working away from home; heavy workloads; long working hours; prejudice; late payments and job insecurity. Poor management practices and a lack of understanding can add to the problem, too.

"Construction needs to look after its workforce. When all workers can access support, without fear of stigma, lives will be saved and attracting new entrants will be easier.

"Our support for mental health training and initiatives will continue and will be outlined in our new Business Plan due to be launched later this month.

Bill Hill, CEO of the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity added: "Training mental health first aiders is a lifesaver. One person can make a huge difference simply by listening and supporting someone who feels that they have nowhere to turn to.

"With support from CITB and the construction industry we need to take action now. Just one small step can make all the difference and we encourage everyone to ask if someone is ok. As well as training we also provide a 24/7 Construction Industry Helpline providing a range of free and confidential support, which is complemented by a free Self Support App. Our free text HARDHAT to 85258 service provides yet another route to support, along with our Lighthouse Beacons who offer a safe space for people to share concerns."