The access and scaffolding industry is being called upon to improve awareness and understanding of mental health by Coventry-based Godiva Access and Scaffolding, as part of World Mental Health Day on Thursday 10 October 2019.
One in four people in the UK will have a mental health problem at some point and anxiety and depression are the most common mental health problems. Incidents are often a reaction to a difficult life event, such as bereavement, but can also be caused by work-related issues. Recent surveys suggest that three out of every five employees experience mental health issues because of work.
Karl Degroot, managing director at Godiva Access and Scaffolding, said: “Physical health still predominates in our industry. Signs remind workers to wear personal protection equipment and we hold regular safety talks and training courses. We need to strengthen the debate around mental health and its importance.
“Scaffolding specialists often experience periods of intense pressure and let’s not forget that suicide kills more men under 45 than falls from height. All employers should have a greater understanding of mental health and take steps to eradicate the stigma associated with it.
“It is so important that we recognise the dangers to the wellbeing of all employees and develop strategies to maintain a healthy work/life balance, for themselves and the teams we lead.”
Godiva will be holding special drop-in sessions for its employees at its offices in Coventry and Manchester as part of its commitment to raise awareness of a sensitive issue on World Mental Health Day.