Nicola Hodkinson, owner of Seddon Construction and trustee of Mates in Mind, is calling for the construction industry to address the stigma around men’s mental health.
Commenting on International Men’s Day (19 November), Hodkinson said this year’s theme – supporting men and boys – is particularly relevant for the construction industry.
“Construction is still a male-dominated environment, and the reality is stark: male construction workers are almost four times more likely to die by suicide than the national average for men,” she said. “That is a statistic that should stop all of us in our tracks.
“For too long, stigma has silenced people who are struggling, especially men. We have to change that culture.
“As leaders, our responsibility is to make sure that every site, every office and every team feels safe to speak openly, without fear of judgment.”
Hodkinson added that creating an environment where employees feel valued, and where bullying or exclusion is not tolerated, is critical.
“At Seddon, we’ve seen how small actions make a big difference – a conversation, a check-in, or simply knowing who to turn to,” she added.
“Organisations like Mates in Mind are actively helping to drive this change, but it has to be something we all own, every day.
“Mental health support should not be a once-a-year focus. International Men’s Day is a timely reminder that it is okay not to be okay – and that speaking up is not a weakness, it is a strength.”
Mental health support and advice for CIOB members, past members and related family is available through CIOB Assist. CIOB, in partnership with Anxiety UK, also provides wellbeing support.
The Lighthouse Charity offers 24/7 free and confidential support on all aspects of emotional, physical, and financial wellbeing.
24/7 helplines: 0345 605 1956 (UK) 1800 939 122 (ROI)
Text HARDHAT to 85258 (UK) or 50808 (ROI)
Live chat and more information: www.lighthousecharity.org
