On World Mental Health Day 2023, GMG has underlined its dedication to supporting employees with year-round mental health and wellbeing support.
At GMG we are committed to supporting positive mental health and offering wellbeing aid to our employees. In January 2022, we appointed our very first ‘GMG Listeners’ to provide support for the workforce – Daniel McGinn, Quantity Surveyor, and Elis Cappie, Junior Quantity Surveyor. The pair qualified as Mental Health First Aiders and have been exceptional ambassadors for the project.
“Internal training programmes ensure GMG’s workforce is aware of the latest regulations and safe working practices, and this includes our team’s mental and physical wellbeing.”
Daniel McGinn, Quantity Surveyor, GMG
Since then, our inhouse service has gone from strength to strength and, as we mark World Mental Health Day on 10 October, we are proud to be carrying on our leading role in breaking down barriers and stigmas associated with mental health in the construction industry.
Recent research by Glasgow Caledonian University, in conjunction with the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity, found that the suicide rate for construction occupations in 2021 rose to 33.82 per 100,000 from 25.52 per 100,000 in 2015.
Another recent study on mental health in the construction industry, by IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect2, revealed 82% of builders in the UK suffer mental health problems due to work-related issues.
Daniel said: “World Mental Health Day is a great way to remind our staff of the support we have on offer.
“The theme of this year’s awareness campaign is ‘mental health is a universal human right’. At GMG we have pledged to protect, support and listen to our staff. Each member of the team, from our apprentices to senior management, are encouraged to look after their mental wellbeing and reach out if they have any concerns.
“Internal training programmes ensure GMG’s workforce is aware of the latest regulations and safe working practices, and this includes our team’s mental and physical wellbeing.”
Contact details for Daniel and Elis are available in the company’s communal area, along with other useful phone numbers, such as The Samaritans.
Held on the 10 October each year, World Mental Health Day is a global initiative aimed at raising awareness about mental health issues, reducing stigma, and advocating for better mental health support and resources worldwide. It is a day to come together and collectively make a difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges.
Read more about GMG’s commitment to health and safety standards, our training for the future programme and the latest news and projects.
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