A Worcestershire-based tradesman is running 5k every day in May to raise awareness of the construction industry’s mental health crisis.
Joe Baker’s challenge is inspired by his personal battle with addiction and mental health, and is dedicated to the 7,000 construction workers who have died by suicide over the last decade.
Baker, who is founder of construction firm Second City Screed, is on a mission to support The Lost City campaign, which is calling for urgent action to prevent more lives being lost to suicide.
I haven’t trained for this. But that’s the point – it’s meant to be hard. Because this issue is hard
Through the challenge, he is also raising money for charities A Band of Brothers and Construction Sport.
“I attempted suicide. I was deep into addiction. Really, really struggling,” Baker revealed.
“It was talking to people that saved me. That and becoming sober.”
According to Baker, each run is a symbol of the mental load so many in the industry carry silently, from fatigue and financial stress to loneliness and grief.
Commenting on the daily 5k runs, he added: “I haven’t trained for this. But that’s the point – it’s meant to be hard. Because this issue is hard.”
Find more information and donate to The Lost City campaign here.
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
