RRT Supports: Hinkley Point Mental Health Event
On Wednesday, October 23rd, the Rapid Relief Team (RRT) partnered with the Lighthouse Club to support a mental health event at Hinkley Point in Taunton, Somerset. The event aimed to raise awareness about mental health within the construction workforce. RRT’s Taunton team volunteers served over 1,000 coffees and Krispy Kreme doughnuts to workers, fostering a supportive and caring environment where individuals could openly discuss their mental health and connect with others.
Hinkley Point Mental Health Event is part of a nationwide initiative highlighting the importance of mental health support within the construction industry. Mental health issues are a significant concern in the UK construction industry. According to data from the Lighthouse Club, a charity supporting construction workers’ mental health, male construction workers are three times more likely to die by suicide than the national average. In fact, over two construction workers die by suicide every day in the UK. Additionally, a 2020 Mates in Mind survey found that 1 in 4 construction workers had considered taking their own life, highlighting the urgent need for mental health support and awareness in this sector.
Events like the Hinkley Point Mental Health Event help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, encouraging workers to speak openly about their struggles. This event served as a platform for open discussions and fostered an environment where workers shared experiences and concerts without fear or judgment. The Lighthouse Club charity plays a crucial role in raising mental health awareness, and the Rapid Relief Team is proud to have partnered with them over the years, bringing together a strong network of volunteers to support this vital cause.
RRT volunteers served 1,000 coffees and Krispy Kreme doughnuts, providing workers with refreshments and contributing to the positive, supportive environment. These small acts of kindness and mental health support from Lighthouse volunteers helped make the event successful. RRT’s involvement in this initiative was one of several efforts nationwide to foster mental health awareness in the construction industry.
RRT volunteer Roland Coldrick added, “When we learned that two construction workers take their lives every single day in the UK, we knew we had to act. It was heartening to work alongside mental health charities, providing invaluable support to these workers and empowering them to speak up.”
As the construction industry continues to confront mental health challenges, initiatives like these are vital. They provide immediate support and foster a culture of openness and understanding. If you or someone you know is struggling, remember that help is available.
Reach out to the 24/7 Construction Industry Helplines at 0345 605 1956 (UK) or 1800 939 122 (ROI), or text HARDHAT to 85258 (UK) or 50808 (ROI).
