A couple of weeks ago we invited two construction workers from the Lighthouse Charity to join our team on site in West Bromwich. Everyone downed tools to listen to these two men who had really hard-hitting stories to share.

The point of it was to show how we all go through stuff. And if you’re ever struggling, support is always available. No one should suffer in silence. They said something that I’m sure we can all relate to… when someone asks how you are, even when things aren’t ok, most of us will say “I’m fine thanks.”

This industry is built on “getting on with it”, but that culture of silence is costing lives. As one of the Lighthouse guys put it, “If we could stop one person from making that irreversible decision to solve what feels like a temporary problem, that’s gotta be a good reason.” It is.

The Lighthouse Charity exists specifically for our industry, offering a free 24/7 confidential helpline, financial grants for workers and families facing hardship, counselling, legal support, and mental health tools – all at no cost. If you’re going through something right now, please don’t just say “I’m fine” and walk away. Reach out to a mate, a manager, or the Lighthouse helpline directly.