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Kier Construction’s Jessica Haskett has been awarded for her passion for supporting colleagues with their mental wellbeing
Design manager Jessica Haskett has scooped the Chartered Institute of Building’s (CIOB) coveted Rising Star award.
She was honoured at the glittering CIOB Awards ceremony in London on 9 April at the Hilton Metropole hotel.
Haskett (pictured above, middle, with broadcaster June Sarpong OBE, left, and Alice Graham of Procore) was recognised for her work supporting the construction of a children’s mental health facility in Dorset, where she championed the use of sustainable materials and led net-zero carbon workshops.
But outside of her day-to-day role as a design manager, Haskett can often be found supporting her colleagues and members of the supply chain with their mental health.
Overwhelming anxiety
Statistics from mental health charity Mates in Mind highlight the overwhelming anxiety construction workers face, with nearly a third of workers revealing they face elevated levels of anxiousness every day.
Haskett said: “Thank you to the CIOB for choosing me as the winner of the Rising Star award. It is my greatest professional achievement to date – especially as it came so early in my career – and it is a great reminder that belief, collaboration and innovation all go hand in hand.
“With the support of my colleagues and my network I have been able to encourage an environment of empathy and understanding where everyone feels supported, whether that’s problem-solving on a project or support with their mental health.”
David Rowsell, managing director of Kier Construction London, added: “We are so proud of Jessica for winning the CIOB Rising Star award. She is an asset to Kier, not only in her role as a design manager but also for her work in tackling mental health, an issue that remains a priority in construction.”
Professional team leader
She was described by her colleagues as an innovative and professional team leader who is determined to promote sustainability in the construction sector.
In 2020, she led a student team to the finals of the Solar Decathlon Middle East competition, a contest where competitors must design and build high-performance, low-carbon buildings.
Caroline Gumble, CEO at CIOB, added: “Firstly, I would like to say a huge congratulations to Jessica for winning the Rising Star award. I do not doubt that she is one to watch for the construction industry and I look forward to seeing her career flourish.
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 access support via the industry charity Lighthouse Club. You can call the support line on 0345 605 1956 or text HARDHAT to 85258.
