Lioncourt Homes tackling mental health in construction with ‘Toolbox Talk’ from The Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity.

Lioncourt Homes recently hosted the #MakeItVisible team at the newly launched sustainable development Priory Meadows in Hempsted, Gloucestershire.

The on-site ‘Toolbox Talk’ in association with The Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity, is a UK wide initiative which raises awareness and provides support for construction workers and speaks openly about struggles that are often overlooked in a male dominate profession. The visit aimed to reach out to construction workers and sub-contract partners on the site. Speakers made a big impact relaying their own mental health struggles and how they had worked though their own challenges to go on to join the #MakeItVisible initiative. Fully supported by the Lioncourt team including the CEO, Commercial Director, Health and Safety Manager and Site Manager, engagement and feedback received from the day have been hugely positive.

two members of lioncourt on site

Data continually identifies workers in construction as at high risk of suicide, some 3.7% times higher than the national average. At Lioncourt Homes the Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing of employees is at the forefront of its people centred culture. Lioncourt Homes has committed to supporting mental health and with 15% of the workforce currently trained as Mental Health First aiders the Company has pledged to achieve a target of 25% by the end of the current financial year.

Liz Macklin, HR Manager for Lioncourt Homes said: “Mental health is a concerning topic in the construction industry. The ‘Toolbox Talk’ was an amazing opportunity for us to welcome the #MakeItVisible team to connect with our on-site teams and subcontractors, helping us to build an environment where mental health can be discussed openly, without stigma or fear of reprisal. This level of open communication is vital if we are to positively change our industry statistics. At Lioncourt Homes we are committed to achieving change, and hope that the steps we are taking to support our workforce will encourage them to speak up in times of need within a supportive culture which in non-judgmental”