The construction industry has long faced challenges around mental health, with workers often feeling unable to speak up about stress, anxiety, or struggles they may be facing.

At Vaughandale, we believe that mental well-being is just as important as physical safety.

That’s why we’ve taken real action, appointing three dedicated Mental Health First Aiders – Nicola Williams, Darren Atkins, and Claire Wilkinson – to provide support, guidance, and a listening ear to our team.

Breaking the Silence Around Mental Health in Construction

For too long, mental well-being in construction has been a hidden issue, with workers encouraged to ‘just get on with it’. But the statistics tell a different story. 

In the UK, suicide rates among male construction workers are nearly four times higher than the national average. 

Additionally, 91% of UK construction workers have felt overwhelmed at some point, and 26% have experienced suicidal thoughts.

Recognising these challenges, Vaughandale has implemented a robust mental health support system.

The introduction of Mental Health First Aiders ensures that employees have immediate access to trained individuals who can provide initial support and guide them towards professional help when needed.

The Role of Mental Health First Aiders

Mental Health First Aiders are trained to:

• Spot the early signs and symptoms of mental ill health
  Recognising changes in behaviour, mood, or performance that may indicate a mental health concern.
• Start a supportive conversation with a colleague who may be experiencing a mental health issue or emotional distress
  Providing a safe and confidential space for individuals to discuss their concerns.
• Listen non-judgementally
  Offering empathetic and unbiased support to those in need.
• Assess the risk of suicide or self-harm
  Identifying critical situations and taking appropriate action to ensure safety.
• Encourage the person to access appropriate professional support or self-help strategies
  Guiding individuals towards resources such as counselling services or Employee Assistance Programmes.
• Maintain confidentiality as appropriate
  Respecting privacy while ensuring the individual receives the necessary support.

Mental Health First Aiders are not therapists or psychiatrists but act as a first point of contact, providing initial support and guiding colleagues towards professional help.

“It’s so important that people know they have someone to turn to,” says Nicola Williams, one of Vaughandale’s Mental Health First Aiders. “Sometimes, just having a conversation can make all the difference.”

For Darren Atkins, stepping into this role is about creating an open, supportive environment. “We want to break the stigma around mental health. Talking about it should be as normal as discussing physical safety on site.”

From checking in on colleagues to offering confidential chats, our Mental Health First Aiders are there to ensure no one at Vaughandale feels alone in their struggles.

Why This Matters – For Our People and Our Work

Investing in mental health isn’t just the right thing to do – it also benefits our team, our projects, and our clients. When employees feel supported, the positive impact is clear:

• Happier, healthier workers
  Access to immediate support reduces stress, boosts morale, and strengthens team relationships.
• Better productivity
  A mentally healthy workforce is more engaged and focused, leading to higher-quality work.
• Fewer absences
  Research shows that employees struggling with mental health take up to four times more sick days than those who feel supported.
  

“It’s about looking after each other,” says Claire Wilkinson. “Knowing that our team feels safe, supported, and valued means everything.”

A Commitment to Wellbeing, A Commitment to Excellence

At Vaughandale, we believe that a strong business starts with a strong team. By prioritising mental health, encouraging open conversations, and making support easily available, we’re not just improving the wellbeing of our staff – we’re also ensuring that we deliver the best possible service to our clients.

As a company, we don’t just build structures – we build a culture of care, respect, and support. That’s what makes Vaughandale different.

If you’re working in construction and struggling with your mental health, remember: you are not alone, get in touch with organisations like The Samaritans, who will offer a confidential ear and support. 

And if you’re part of the Vaughandale family, Nicola, Darren, and Claire are always here to help.