Men are already statistically 3 times more likely than women to take their own life. There have been more than 1,400 suicides in 5 years in the construction industry (source: ONS). Worrying statistics, even though construction only accounts for 7% of the UK workforce. On a positive front there has been a significant decrease in the male suicide rate and it’s the lowest for 30 years (source: Samaritans).
GMB National secretary for manufacturing comments “There can be no excuse for high suicide rates in any sector, but unacceptable cultures of exploitation, poverty pay and insecurity still persist in parts of the manufacturing and construction industries“ (constructionnews.co.uk)
Regardless of specific industry factors, when it comes to mental health at work, it’s the same features:
- Workload pressures – long hours and away from home, sometimes several weeks at a time
- Lack of support – a “tough guy” and confrontational culture
- Change and uncertainty – the threat of redundancy (Carillion for example)
The statistics are recognised by industry leaders but what is actually being done? Providing education and awareness, Mates in Mind is a new charity looking to make sense of the options out there and aim to reach 75% of the industry by 2025. That could be another 1,400 suicides.
Asking for help and talking about personal issues generally does not come naturally for men. That’s not saying there aren’t men who can and do. We need to understand from each individuals perspective and make dramatic changes in the industry to start addressing these alarming and noteable statistics.
