THE Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is marking World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) by urging builders to reach out for help if they are struggling.
With the construction industry continuing to face a ‘disproportionate’ mental health crisis, the FMB said it is committed to breaking the silence, raising awareness, and encouraging people to ask for help.
The organisation highlighted figures and reports from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and other sources showing that suicide rates in the construction industry are significantly higher than the national average. This is linked to long and irregular working hours, job insecurity, high-pressure environments, and a culture that often fails to encourage seeking mental health support.
Brian Berry, CEO of the Federation of Master Builders, said, “The pressures faced by those working in construction can be overwhelming, but no one should face their struggles alone. Every death is a tragedy and at the FMB we want every builder and industry professional to not be afraid of reaching out if they need help. There is strength in asking for support.”
The Lighthouse Charity is the FMB’s charity partner for 2025. The organisation offers confidential 24/7 helpline services, counselling, and wellbeing resources to support the mental wellbeing of builders, tradespeople, and construction workers across the UK.
Sarah Bolton, CEO of the Lighthouse Charity, added, “Our long-standing partnership with FMB ensures that our message of support is amplified to its members and beyond, delivering a meaningful impact and extending the hand of support to those that may not know about the help available. On World Suicide Prevention Day, we want to remind everyone that reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
“At Lighthouse, we provide a safe, confidential space where people can talk, find understanding, and seek help in a non-judgemental environment. No one should ever feel alone and we have a variety of ways that people can reach out for support. We are always here to listen and support our construction community through difficult times.”
