Covid-19: CITB chief exec update - 12 May 2021

Good afternoon,   

This week is Mental Health Awareness Week. Research by CITB has shown that almost all construction workers have experienced stress in the last year, and more than a quarter have experienced suicidal thoughts. 

“This has to stop. Too many people are struggling – I hope my story can help.” These are the words of Andy Stevens, a self-employed builder who hit rock bottom but who has since recovered. You may find some parts of his powerful story familiar from your own experiences or those of colleagues.  

Please take the time to find out about free help for you and those you work with, detailed below.   

Mental Health Awareness Week 

While the largest employers might offer support to workers, smaller companies and sole traders may not know how to access free assistance that’s available.  

CITB is funding an initiative to help resolve this by providing accessible and consistent mental health support for everyone working in construction, including a standardised approach across the industry. 

We also fund The Lighthouse Club charity to provide support, which has trained nearly 5,000 mental health first aiders in the construction sector who have helped around 6,300 people so far.  

The Lighthouse Club delivers charitable, financial and emotional support to the construction industry. If you would like to apply for financial or wellbeing support you can either call their 24/7 confidential Construction Industry Helpline on 0345 605 1956 in the UK, and 1800 939 122 in Ireland, download the helpline app, or submit your application online here. 

Best wishes and stay safe everyone,   

Sarah Beale   
Chief Executive