Terry, can you tell us about your role at Eden Facades and how mental health fits into your responsibilities as SHEQ Manager?

“I cover Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality, so I already wear a few hats. But given how serious mental health is in construction, I decided to take it a step further – I trained as a Mental Health First Aider.

“That training equips you to start conversations, listen, and crucially, signpost people toward the right help. Sometimes it’s just asking, “Are you OK?” – and then asking again, “Are you really OK?” It’s about creating space where people feel they can open up.”

Mental health in construction is a huge topic. What does it mean to you personally, and why is it so important to highlight it?

“It’s very personal for me. A few years back, during COVID, I got a call to say that someone I’d worked with for over 20 years had taken his own life. It was completely unexpected. That really struck me – it reminded me how serious and hidden these issues can be and why mental health should be an ongoing conversation.

“Everyone has mental health, just like we all have physical health. But too often in this industry, people bottle things up. That experience motivated me to ensure we don’t ignore these conversations.”

Why do you think mental health remains such a challenge in construction?

“It’s still a male-dominated industry, and a lot of men don’t talk about how they’re feeling. This idea of being the breadwinner, staying strong, and not showing weakness builds pressure.

“You’ve also got job insecurity, long hours, working away from home, and financial worries. Some people are self-employed and always looking for the next job. That’s a heavy burden, and without an outlet, it can become overwhelming.”

Have you noticed any shift in attitudes over the years? Are we moving in the right direction?

“We are, slowly. When I first started out, no one talked about mental health. But now, saying, ‘Actually, I’m struggling’ is becoming more accepted.

“There’s still work to do, but conversations are happening more often. It’s about building a culture where it’s okay not to be okay.”

This year’s Mental Health Awareness Week theme is ‘community’. What does a strong, supportive workplace community look like at Eden Facades?

“We’ve got a great team – a real mix of ages, backgrounds, and experiences. It feels like a family environment. Everyone looks out for each other, and management genuinely cares. Tony [Hill] and Paul [Michaelson], co-owners of Eden Facades, have created an open-door culture where you can talk about what’s going on, whether it’s work or personal.

“We even have things like a weekly fruit delivery to promote better habits and give people a lift. It’s a small gesture, but it shows that people matter.

“It’s important to remember that we all have mental health. A problem shared is a problem halved. And we’re here to listen.”

What practical steps can companies take to build that sense of community and trust on-site and in the office?

“Start with awareness. At Eden Facades, we’re rolling out mental health awareness training for our site teams, not just office staff. That way, people on the ground can recognise the signs and support each other.

“We’re also looking to train more Mental Health First Aiders, so there’s always someone around to talk to – someone you feel comfortable with. It’s about having the right people in the right places.”

Can you tell us more about Eden being supporters of the Lighthouse Club charity and why it matters?

“The Lighthouse Club is an incredible charity. They provide 24/7 support to construction workers – mental, physical, financial, and emotional. You don’t have to know someone personally; you can just pick up the phone and speak to someone who understands our industry.

“They understand the pressures of the industry and provide the right type of support for those in need.

“They’ve helped people pay bills, deal with bereavement, and find support at their lowest. That’s why we proudly back them as a company – it’s real help, right when people need it.”

What advice would you give to a construction worker who is struggling but doesn’t know how to ask for help?

“Just talk to someone – ask a colleague if you can grab a coffee and have a chat. If you don’t want to talk to someone at work, the Lighthouse Club is always there. Remember, you’re not alone. There are also many resources available and people to speak to. You’re not alone in this journey.”

Mental health support for construction workers

If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out to a colleague, manager, or one of the organisations listed above. Help is always available; a single conversation can make a big difference.

• Lighthouse Club – The Construction Industry Charity – This organisation provides emotional, physical, and financial support to construction workers and their families. Their Construction Industry Helpline is available 24/7, offering confidential advice, mental health support, and training services tailored to the industry.
• Mates in Mind – A UK-based charity raising awareness and supporting mental health in the construction and related industries. They provide tools, training, and resources to help workplaces improve mental well-being.

• Mind – A mental health charity offering advice, support, and information on mental health issues. They also provide resources tailored to workplace mental health.