It is widely acknowledged that mental health is a serious issue within the construction sector. Unfortunately, in this male dominated industry, men are three times more likely to die by suicide than the national average. Passionate about enacting positive change in construction, Pexhurst are raising awareness of this important topic. To commemorate World Mental Health Day, we spoke to mental health charity bigmoose to tackle these issues and address the steps we can take to support our workforce further.
bigmoose was founded in 2014, with a simple but meaningful aim: to leave the world better than they found it. Founded by a father and daughter team, Jeff and Chloe Smith, bigmoose is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of those in need, actively addressing mental health challenges through awareness events, and facilitating free or discounted counselling services with therapists. Pexhurst interviewed co-founder and CEO Jeff Smith to help shed light on the important subject of mental health.
1. Can you tell us about bigmoose’s work in helping people struggling with mental health issues. Which sectors do you work with and how do you explain your ‘Every Mind Matters’ approach to mental health support?
We are a very tiny charity with huge dreams of helping people by connecting them to an amazing network of therapists, and since January 2022 we have had 739 people access our therapists, with 27 testimonials from people we have saved from suicide. We are happy to connect with anyone in any industry, and are rolling out a plan in 2024 which will better connect us to businesses and schools.
2. Statistics show that suicide kills more construction workers than falls and a recent survey revealed that more than a quarter of construction industry workers admitted they had thought about taking their own life. Yet, mental health remains a taboo subject among construction industry employees. Why do you think that is?
In my opinion, construction is a male-dominated industry with an outdated ‘macho culture’ where men don’t want to appear weak. It’s important that we challenge these ideas, and let everyone know that it’s not weak to talk about your feelings – it’s a sign of strength.
3. Pexhurst have partnered with external health and safety consultants in the past to deliver Toolbox Talks across all our live construction sites to employees as a guide to nurturing their mental health. How important are such programmes, and what other initiatives would you like to see introduced to improve mental health support for employees?
The Toolbox Talks are a great starting point, helping to raise awareness of a widespread issue. Going forward, I think it would be beneficial to get everybody on a full-scale mental health first aid course. Although this is a big commitment, the return on investment would be phenomenal. I would also get key players onto a prevention of suicide course and think about providing a system where employees can get fast, confidential access to therapists – this would be extremely beneficial.
4. What message would you like to send to construction employees, whether male or female, who might be struggling with their mental health but feel unable to talk to someone about it?
No matter what you are going through, there is always someone to talk to. Ideally it would be us, as we are trained to provide the right support – but if not us, then please speak to someone professional to ensure you can get the help you need.
5. How can people contact bigmoose and what support are you able to offer?
People can reach out to us via our website, or by filling out our ‘Hope’ form (see link below). From this we can refer you to a therapist and ensure you receive the support you need. Remember that you are not alone, and we will do our best to help you.
https://hope.bigmoosecharity.co/registration/new-patient
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