BARRATT and David Wilson Homes North Scotland has joined forces with SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health) to create a new suicide prevention training programme tailored to the Scottish construction industry.
Backed by £239,000 in funding from the Construction Industry Training Board’s (CITB) Industry Impact Fund, the initiative aims to equip companies and individuals with the tools to identify colleagues facing mental health challenges and provide meaningful support.
Barratt and David Wilson Homes North Scotland will combine with SAMH to create a bespoke training and resource programme designed for the pressures faced by construction workers. They are inviting individuals from across the sector to share first-hand experience and participate in focus groups to help shape the content of the programme, which is due to launch this autumn.
Kevin Urquhart, construction director at Barratt and David Wilson Homes North Scotland, said, “Leading this initiative with SAMH is an important step in tackling a critical issue in our industry. We are extremely grateful to CITB for their financial support, which will enable us to develop a programme that equips workers and businesses with the tools to identify and support those in need.
“To effectively address the industry’s challenges, it’s essential that we listen to and work closely with those in construction who can help shape this training. We invite you to join us is in making a lasting difference.”
Nicole Burke, workplace business development manager at SAMH, added, “We are delighted to be leading on this essential initiative alongside Barratt and David Wilson Homes North Scotland, to tackle suicide prevention within the construction industry. With suicide rates disproportionately high in this sector, it is crucial that we provide tailored training and awareness to make a real difference.”
Vanessa Freeman, head of grant & funding products at the CITB, commented, “The wellbeing of construction workers is a vital priority for CITB, and we are proud to support this fantastic initiative led by Barratt and David Wilson Homes North Scotland and SAMH. The construction industry faces unique pressures, and targeted mental health interventions like this suicide prevention programme are crucial to creating a culture of support and openness.”
For those interested in joining a focus group or seeking more details, please email ciif.training@samh.org.uk.
