Project Summary

Challenge

Construction continues to experience disproportionately high rates of suicide compared with many other industries. Long working hours, workforce pressures, financial uncertainty, time away from home and the stigma surrounding mental health can make it difficult for workers to seek support when they need it most. While awareness of mental health has improved across the sector, there remains a lack of construction-specific training and resources focused on suicide prevention and how to support colleagues who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts or who have been affected by suicide.

Creating a culture where people feel confident discussing mental health and wellbeing is essential to supporting a more inclusive, compassionate and resilient construction workforce.

Solution

Barratt Homes North Scotland has partnered with Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH) to develop and deliver a suite of industry-specific suicide prevention training and resources for the construction sector. The programme has been shaped by extensive research, industry consultation and lived experience, ensuring the training reflects the unique challenges faced by construction workers and employers.

The training programme aims to equip participants with the knowledge, confidence and skills to recognise warning signs, start supportive conversations and help individuals access appropriate support. The resources have been designed to be practical, accessible and relevant to a wide range of construction roles.

Key topics include:

• Understanding suicide and its impact on the construction industry

• Recognising signs that someone may be experiencing suicidal thoughts

• Reducing stigma around suicide and mental health

• Having supportive conversations in the workplace

• Understanding personal and professional boundaries

• Signposting individuals to appropriate support services

• Supporting colleagues and workplaces affected by suicide

• Building positive workplace cultures that promote wellbeing and inclusion

The programme combines research, focus groups, pilot sessions and trainer-led delivery to create a sustainable training offer that can continue benefiting the industry beyond the funding period. Through collaboration with industry stakeholders and mental health specialists, the project aims to improve suicide prevention awareness while supporting a culture where mental health conversations are normalised and encouraged.

Early results have shown strong engagement across the construction sector, with participant feedback highlighting increased confidence, understanding and willingness to have conversations about suicide and mental wellbeing in the workplace.

Expected Outcomes

Get Involved

More information on available training can be found here: SAMH