CIPHE has joined Great Britain’s workplace regulator to support those in the Plumbing and Heating industry struggling with mental health and work-related stress.
The Working Minds campaign, set up by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), launched in 2021 and in March will increase its support to those in the construction industry with the addition of six new partners to help reach trades and offer free support.
Kevin Wellman, CEO at CIPHE, expressed his full support for the Working Minds campaign, stating, “It's crucial for employers to prioritise mental health in the workplace, and this initiative provides valuable resources and support to prevent stress and promote well-being. Let's join forces to create healthier, more supportive work environments for all.”
Working Minds helps employers to follow five simple steps based on risk assessment. They are to Reach out and have conversations, Recognise the signs and causes of stress, Respond to any risks you’ve identified, Reflect on actions you’ve agreed and taken, and make it Routine. It needs to become the norm to talk about stress and how people are feeling and coping on site.
To help employers prevent stress and support good mental health, Working Minds offers free online learning to show how to make it part of routine working life and culture. The bitesize online learning typically takes no more than an hour to complete and covers what the law requires of employers and what’s needed to do to be compliant.
Liz Goodwill, head of work-related stress and mental health policy at HSE, said: “We are delighted the Working Minds campaign is welcoming CIPHE as a partner and they will no doubt help us in our efforts to raise awareness of ways to prevent and reduce work-related stress in Britain’s construction industry. The law requires all employers to carry out a stress risk assessment and act upon the findings to prevent work related stress and support good mental health in the workplace. The online learning shares all the tools you need to get started in one place, and you can come back as many times as you like.”
According to Deloitte the total annual cost of poor mental health has increased by 25% since 2019, costing UK employers up to £56 billion a year. Around half of working days are lost due to work-related stress, depression or anxiety.
Where to begin?
Register for Working Minds’ online learning and get started today.
Find out more about the Working Minds campaign.
Help is available
If you or someone you know needs help or support, reach out and ask how they are feeling and coping. You could also signpost the services offered by other Working Minds partners including:
The Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity provides free support services to any construction worker or their family including;
- 24/7 Construction Industry Helpline, call 0345 605 1956
- Text HARDHAT to 85258 f you’re uncomfortable talking and would rather text
- Free Construction Industry Helpline mobile app.
Mates in Mind charity can provide can also offer advice to organisations through their Supporter Programme or individuals can text “BeAMate” to 85258 to access free and confidential mental health support service from trained volunteers.
For tips and advice to help you look after your mental health, answer 5 questions to receive a personalised Mind plan from Every Mind Matters (NHS).