Fergus announced that it is encouraging the trade to prioritise mental health, following recent statistics from the Lighthouse Charity that showed a 30% increase in demand for its help and support from the construction sector over the last year.
These figures follow in the wake of a 2020 report from the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) that highlighted the silent mental health crisis within the construction industry, with males three times more likely to commit suicide than those in other sectors.
James Chillman, UK country manager for Fergus, said: “It might not be the most discussed topic out on the tools, but mental health is a major part of a tradesperson’s overall well-being. It influences how we think, how we feel and how we act. In the construction industry, where physical labour is demanding and the work environment can be high-pressure, it’s no surprise that mental health often takes a backseat. And there is little doubt that running a business can add to that pressure too.
“It is essential that business owners and workers take action to prioritise work/life balance. We’ve seen a worrying trend in rising suicide rates and depression related to work issues in our industry, and we can’t afford to ignore this any longer. It’s time for construction companies to take a proactive approach to improving the mental wellbeing of their workers.”
Mental health is a subject close to the Fergus team, a statement said. The founder of Fergus, Dan Pollard, a heating and plumbing engineer from New Zealand, also found things mentally tough when he was on the tools, eventually leading to the creation of software that would help him keep on top of his business and work-life balance. Dan said he went through some tough times and has made sure ever since that Fergus gives hints and tips to the trade to stay on top of their mental wellbeing.
The company shared some methods to help promote positive mental health for tradespeople.
Open communication
Encourage open dialogue about mental health, the company stated. This can be achieved through regular team meetings and anonymous feedback channels. When workers feel they can speak freely about struggles or issues, it noted, they are more likely to seek help.
Access to resources
Provide access to mental health resources, such as counselling services or stress management workshops and offer training to managers and supervisers on how to recognise signs of mental distress.
Work-life balance
Promote a healthy work-life balance, it noted. This includes reasonable working hours, breaks during the workday and time off.
Leading by example
Business owners and managers should lead by example, Fergus suggested. By taking care of their own mental health and being open about it, it added, they set a precedent for their employees.
The role of technology
Technology can play a significant role in supporting mental health in the trades industry, it stated. According to Fergus, job management software can streamline workflows, reduce day-to-day stress and help tradespeople focus on what they do best.