Employers urged to prioritise mental health in 2024

Veriforce CHAS is encouraging employers to make a habit of addressing mental health this year, as new figures indicate that stress, depression or anxiety now account for almost half (49%) of all cases of work-related ill health.

According to the latest data from the HSE, during the 2022/23 period, approximately 875,000 workers experienced work-related stress, depression, or anxiety, resulting in 2,590 cases per 100,000 workers and an estimated loss of 17.1 million working days.

Underscoring the need for businesses to proactively address mental health concerns in 2024, Veriforce CHAS managing director Ian McKinnon said: "The latest HSE statistics on workplace ill health shows mental health issues continue to loom large, which is why we are encouraging businesses to make a habit of addressing mental health in the coming year. 

“We urge businesses who haven’t already done so to sign the Causeway mental health pledge and commit to promoting good mental health as a routine part of their business operations.” 

Veriforce CHAS is launching a dedicated mental health accreditation in 2024. This initiative aims to set benchmarks for how businesses and their supply chains address mental health in the workplace.

McKinnon added: "At Veriforce CHAS, we have a long history of setting compliance benchmarks and raising health and safety standards, and we are resolved to use this influence to drive improvements in workplace mental health in 2024 and beyond.”  

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.

For additional support or advice, contact the Samaritans by calling 116 123. Alternatively, you can also access support via the industry charity Lighthouse Club. You can call the support line on 0345 605 1956 or text HARDHAT to 85258.