Graham highlights commitment to men’s health and wellbeing  

Graham is marking International Men’s Day (19 November) by highlighting the support services available to its male workforce. 

The contractor, which currently employs 355 men across its Building North division, offers professional help across a range of areas.

The company’s Wellzone app features a library of support videos, podcasts and tools providing guidance on personal matters, ranging from finance to fitness, and how to seek professional advice on issues such as domestic abuse and grief. 

Three members of the team have completed Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) and help to support the mental wellbeing of their peers throughout the region.

More than 30 Graham staff have also been trained as mental health first aiders, equipped with the skills to spot the warning signs of poor mental health, provide initial assistance, and help their colleagues access professional advice. 

Working with Glasgow-based charity Men Matter, Graham has rolled out a programme of wellbeing workshops on live sites across Scotland and Northern Ireland, and will soon extend this into York.

Debbie Rutherford, head of social impact and support services at Graham Building North, commented: “It is crucial that the construction industry works hard to enhance the support available for the mental health and wellbeing of our people – the most valuable asset of any business.

“I am incredibly proud that we foster an environment at Graham where men are encouraged to look out for one another and seek help when needed. The feedback from those who have attended our Men Matter sessions has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the importance of our partnership with the charity.

“In fact, some participants have found the sessions so impactful that they’ve suggested making them mandatory for all Graham employees. This kind of feedback inspires us to continue strengthening our internal support network, ensuring that everyone has access to the best possible resources, both on and off the construction site.”

The Samaritans provides 24/7 support on 116 123.

Construction workers can text BOB to 85258 to access mental health support. The Lighthouse Club also provides a confidential 24/7 support helpline on 0345 605 1956 to anyone in the industry who needs financial or wellbeing support.

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.