Lighthouse Charity has launched an urgent appeal to raise £200,000 by Christmas, warning that record demand is putting its support services for construction workers and their families under pressure.
The charity says the number of families seeking financial, emotional and physical wellbeing support has risen by 51% so far this year. Food deliveries are up 65%, and it has funded more than 7,000 counselling sessions.
In the first seven months of 2026, Lighthouse supported more than 6,000 families and delivered over 8,000 meals, according to its latest media release.
The Winter Appeal is intended to help maintain those services as the charity approaches what it describes as its busiest and most challenging quarter.
Full-time workers seeking help
Sarah Bolton, chief executive of Lighthouse Charity, said the pressure extends to people who remain in full-time employment but cannot meet basic living costs.
“We’re receiving calls from people who are in full-time work but still can’t afford to feed their family, as well as paying for increased fuel, housing and energy costs,” she said.
Bolton said the charity’s team was hearing daily from workers struggling to cover essentials and travel costs, alongside people caring for sick children and relatives. Rising costs were adding to the strain on a workforce often working long hours, away from home and in challenging conditions.
“It’s a perfect storm and we need to act now. We need the support of the industry to ensure that we can continue to deliver our vital services,” she said.
“To achieve that we need to raise £200,000 by Christmas and we’re urging our industry leaders to join together in a unified force to support our community.”
Industry urged to support winter appeal
Lighthouse provides emotional, physical and financial wellbeing support to the construction community across the UK and Ireland. Its services include a confidential 24-hour helpline, one-to-one online chat and a self-support app.
The charity, which has been supporting the industry for 70 years, is asking individuals and businesses to contribute through its Winter Appeal page. The page also explains how donations help workers and families in need.
Construction workers and their families who need help can call 0345 605 1956 in the UK or 1800 939 122 in the Republic of Ireland. Free and confidential support is available 24/7, with online chat available through the charity’s website.
