Civil engineering costs are set to rise by 16 per cent over the next five years to 4Q 2029, driven mainly by increasing labour costs. Over the same period, civil engineering tender prices are expected to increase by 22 per cent according to the latest forecast from the Building Cost
Alliance Homes is celebrating a key milestone, with its total number of homes across the West of England now reaching 7,000. The landmark highlights the organisation’s commitment to playing its part in tackling the housing crisis in the region, with an ambition to build 2,000 new affordable homes by 2033.
The Prime Minister recently announced the latest tranche of funding for the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU). This additional investment of £415m will enable further progress on the multi-billion-pound programme, ensuring the delivery of faster, more frequent, and greener rail services between Manchester, Huddersfield, Leeds, and York. Beyond the transport improvements, TRU
Gateway 2 is a crucial regulatory checkpoint introduced under the Building Safety Act 2022, applying to higher-risk buildings, typically those over eighteen metres tall or with seven or more storeys and containing at least two residential units. Compliance is required before construction begins, meaning no work can legally start until
Family-owned construction firm Beard has unveiled details of the most successful trading period in its 133-year history, with turnover rising by 10% and approaching £200m in 2024. In the full year to 31 December 2024, the company turned over £198m, with pre-tax profits reaching £5.2million in a strong performance underpinned
Baxi is encouraging social housing providers to ensure they have robust clean heat strategies in place for both new build and refurbishment projects following funding announcements in the Spring Statement. The call follows the government’s allocation of £2 billion to support the development of 18,000 new affordable homes, half of
Round Hill Capital, a leading global specialist real estate investor, developer and manager, has recently topped out on its Fairfax build-to-rent development in central Manchester. With BTR specialist Olympian Homes acting as lead developer and RG Group as main contractor, topping out was achieved eight weeks ahead of schedule. Acquired
Multiplex is gearing up to commence the main build phase of the £1bn Fifty Fenchurch Street development in London this summer. With Keltbray now completing piling and excavation works, Multiplex is preparing to take over as the main contractor for the 36-storey, 650,000 sq ft office tower, developed by AXA
Specialist capital advisory firm Arc & Co. has closed a 70% LTV debt package in partnership with Ingenious Capital Management, whilst also sourcing a JV equity investor to support the development of a purpose-built student accommodation project in Tower Hamlets, London. Southern Grove is developing the 111-bed, £36m GDV scheme in
St John Ambulance launches Hi Vis Stress Vest campaign and new mental health first aid course. St John Ambulance has today launched a campaign to get construction workers to open up about their mental health after new research* found nearly seven in 10 have suspected a colleague was seriously depressed
Civil engineering costs are set to rise by 16 per cent over the next five years to 4Q 2029, driven mainly by increasing labour costs. Over the same period, civil engineering tender prices are expected to increase by 22 per cent according to the latest forecast from the Building Cost Information Service (BCIS). Dr David Crosthwaite, chief economist at BCIS, said: “Infrastructure projects, by their nature, require long-term planning and delivery, meaning there are no quick fixes. “However, greater government clarity could help to restore confidence in the sector. “The Lower Thames Crossing, for instance, remains in limbo. Despite being a critical transport project, it has yet to receive final approval, with Chancellor Rachel Reeves recently saying it will need to be funded by private finance. But securing investment takes time, and no investor will commit without a definitive green light from the government. “If ministers are serious about revitalising infrastructure, decisive action is required. Without firm commitments and project approvals, the industry risks further stagnation at a time when clear direction is urgently needed.” BCIS has formed a Civil Engineering TPI panel to advise on the latest movement in tender prices. Comprised of cost consultants from firms involved in multiple civil engineering tenders in the UK, the panel also provides commentary on conditions affecting pricing levels on civil engineering projects. The panel agreed an average increase of 1 per cent in the first quarter of 2025, with annual growth at 3 per cent. Dr Crosthwaite said: “Like in other sectors, civil engineering clients are waiting to see what happens with the second phase of the government’s spending review, due in June. Until then, there continues to be uncertainty in the market. “Panellists said that, although there is positive sentiment in the sector, the point at which that is expected to convert to activity keeps moving back. Whereas there was an expectation at the end of last year that output would increase from the beginning of the year, they’re now talking about the latter half of this year at the earliest.” Contractors’ appetite to tender for civil engineering projects was reported as fairly flat with some sub-sectors busy with constrained supply chains. Dr Crosthwaite said: “Water, sewerage and electricity generation spending are expected to kick in later this year, so we’ll see increased pressure in those areas. “Panellists also reported that they are starting to see some price rises feeding through following the announced changes to employers National Insurance contributions.” New work infrastructure output declined by 9.3 per cent in 2024 but is set to return to growth from this year. Output in the sector is forecast to rise by 17 per cent over the next five years. Dr Crosthwaite added: “Future output levels will be bolstered by proposed new work in the energy and water sectors, alongside ongoing work on HS2, Hinkley Point C, and offshore wind developments. In addition, the commitment to build the HS2 link between Old Oak Common and Euston is likely to boost output when construction starts in 2026.” For more information about BCIS, please visit: www.bcis.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Alliance Homes is celebrating a key milestone, with its total number of homes across the West of England now reaching 7,000. The landmark highlights the organisation’s commitment to playing its part in tackling the housing crisis in the region, with an ambition to build 2,000 new affordable homes by 2033. To mark the occasion, Alliance Homes’ Service Director for New Homes, Sarah McQuatt, met with one of the housing association’s newest customers, Samantha and David Mildon, who recently moved into a new build home with their daughter Bella and dog Huxley. Their four-bed, end of terrace home is part of the Parish Brook development in Nailsea, which is delivering 51 affordable homes to the area, including 42 for social rent and nine for shared ownership. Alliance Homes’ Service Director for New Homes, Sarah McQuatt (Left) cuts a celebration cake with Samantha and David Mildon. Samantha’s story shows the impact that safe and secure affordable housing can have on families. Before moving to Parish Brook in December 2024, she and her family lived in a privately rented home that felt too small, was expensive to heat and didn’t offer them long-term stability. The new home has given them much-needed space and security, particularly for Bella, who is blind and has autism and epilepsy. Bella Mildon Samantha’s story shows the impact that safe and secure affordable housing can have on families. Before moving to Parish Brook in December 2024, she and her family lived in a privately rented home that felt too small, was expensive to heat and didn’t offer them long-term stability. The new home has given them much-needed space and security, particularly for Bella, who is blind and has autism and epilepsy. Samantha said: “Moving into this house has made such a big difference to our lives – we feel like we’ve won the lottery, and every aspect of our lives has improved. “Before, Bella would have multiple meltdowns a day. Now it’s maybe once a week – and usually triggered by her epilepsy rather than her environment. “The open-plan layout has given Bella more confidence to move around, something she lost after she became blind. We now also have the space for her to receive medical treatments at home and even room for respite carers to stay overnight. Our new home has made us all much calmer, happier, and more confident for the future. This is somewhere we can put down roots and really grow.” Samantha and David Mildon at home with their dog Huxley David explained how the energy-efficiency of the home has also helped with heating bills. “We only need to put the heating on for an hour in the morning, and it stays cosy for the rest of the day.” Sarah McQuatt said: “It’s fantastic to celebrate this milestone and to see first-hand the difference a secure, affordable home can make to a family like Samantha, David and Bella’s. I’m so pleased to see them flourishing in their new home. “At Alliance, we want to do our bit to tackle the housing crisis in our region, and we build around 175 new affordable homes each year. Our ambition to build 2,000 new affordable homes by 2033 will help more local people and families access secure, well-built homes in the future.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Prime Minister recently announced the latest tranche of funding for the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU). This additional investment of £415m will enable further progress on the multi-billion-pound programme, ensuring the delivery of faster, more frequent, and greener rail services between Manchester, Huddersfield, Leeds, and York. Beyond the transport improvements, TRU is unlocking significant social and economic benefits for the region. Thousands of jobs and hundreds of apprenticeships are being created, local businesses are benefiting from supply chain opportunities and the shift towards greener transport will reduce carbon emissions by up to 87,000 tonnes each year. James Richardson, Managing Director for Transpennine Route Upgrade, said: “The government’s continued support for TRU is a clear vote of confidence in the work we are doing, which is an enabler to releasing the economic potential of the North. This funding supports our onward journey to be truly transformational, delivering faster, more reliable rail services that connect people to jobs, education, and leisure opportunities. “By improving connectivity and increasing capacity, we are not only enhancing journeys for customers but also helping to drive up investment supporting more housing and more jobs and boosting productivity across the region.” The TRU programme is delivering: With this latest announcement, it takes the programme to £7.3bn of approved funding and moves TRU even closer to delivering a modern, high-performing railway, that better connects communities across the North. By enhancing capacity, reliability and sustainability, the programme is improving journeys for passengers, and strengthening the region’s economic future. As work progresses, this transformative Transpennine Route Upgrade will play a vital role in unlocking new opportunities, supporting local businesses and helping create a more prosperous and better-connected North for generations to come. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Gateway 2 is a crucial regulatory checkpoint introduced under the Building Safety Act 2022, applying to higher-risk buildings, typically those over eighteen metres tall or with seven or more storeys and containing at least two residential units. Compliance is required before construction begins, meaning no work can legally start until the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has reviewed and approved a detailed building control application. This application must demonstrate that the building’s design meets all relevant Building Regulations and properly considers fire safety and structural safety risks. The building control application submitted at the Gateway 2 stage is much more thorough than traditional applications. It requires developers to submit full design documentation, including plans, calculations, and specifications, along with a fire and emergency file and evidence that competent professionals are overseeing the project. Developers must also show how they will maintain the ‘Golden Thread’ which is a clear, up-to-date record of safety information applicable throughout the building’s life cycle. The application must also set out how any design changes during construction will be managed and reported to the regulator. The introduction of Gateway 2 is part of a wider push to improve building safety following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, ensuring safety is prioritised from the very start of construction. By requiring a ‘stop/go’ decision point before work can begin, Gateway 2 aims to prevent unsafe designs from progressing into construction, increasing accountability and ensuring higher standards across the industry. This stricter process is designed to reduce safety risks during both construction and the eventual occupation of the building. Gateway 2 is part of a staged process, the three gateways in the new system are: Gateway 1 – Pre-Planning: Considering safety risks at the planning application stage. Gateway 2 – Pre-Construction: Ensuring the design is safe before building starts. (this is where Gateway 2 compliance applies). Gateway 3 – Post-Construction: A final check before the building is occupied. Aluprof UK has demonstrated a strong commitment to aligning with the Building Safety Act’s requirements, particularly concerning Gateway 2 approvals. Its broad range of high performance façade solutions, all 3rd party tested to the relevant standards makes Aluprof the ideal partner. In addition their major projects team collaborates closely with specialist façade contractors to ensure that all necessary supporting documentation and compliance measures are meticulously prepared for submission to the Building Safety Regulator (BSR). This proactive approach is essential, especially in light of recent challenges faced by the BSR, such as delays in processing Gateway 2 applications due to an outsourced delivery model and a shortage of in-house technical expertise. Aluprof’s vertical integration benefits specifiers by ensuring consistent product quality, streamlined supply chains, and enhanced technical support. With in-house system design, manufacturing, and testing, Aluprof delivers high-performance aluminium systems that meet stringent UK and EU building regulations, including Gateway 2 requirements under the Building Safety Act. This integrated approach allows for greater customisation, faster lead times, and improved cost efficiency, giving specifiers confidence in project timelines and compliance. Additionally, direct collaboration with Aluprof’s experts ensures tailored solutions that align with architectural intent while enhancing sustainability and energy efficiency. UK-based facade specialists, Century Facades, in conjunction with the team at Aluprof UK, have recently confirmed that the Gateway 2 application for the Devonshire Place project in London is complete. The validation checks have recently been conducted and the application has been determined to be valid, however, the final decision will be made within the statutory timelines unless an extension of time is agreed. Marcin Bara, Design Director at Century Facades takes up the story: “In the context of UK construction industry, Gateway 2 focuses on ensuring compliance with the functional requirements of the Building Regulations and forms a “hold point” between the design and construction phases. It is crucial for a facade specialist contractor to work closely with the facade system supplier and vice versa to align on design intricacies, material specifications, and safety requirements. This collaboration must be based on trust and true partnership as only this ensures that the facade would not only meet aesthetic criteria but also adheres to performance and safety standards mandated by current Building Regulations via Gateway processes. “Effective communication and coordination between the contractor and supplier help in identifying potential issues early, optimising resource use, and ensuring the facade system contributes to the building’s overall compliance, sustainability, and safety objectives. This is where key partners such as Aluprof can work as an extension arm to our competent and fully qualified in-house Design and Engineering Teams to ensure the application produced for Gateway 2 is of the highest possible standards. “It is crucial for the system supplier to offer tailored approach to this new approval regime, so that their offer and service provided is project specific and matches our requirements as a specialist facade contractor fully. This is where our close partners such as Aluprof can play a key role in producing quality submissions, meeting expectations of our Clients entirely.” Between October 1, 2023, and September 16, 2024, the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) reported that they had received 1,018 Gateway 2 applications. Of these, only 146 were approved, equating to an approval rate of approximately 14%. The BSR rejected 25 applications, while the status of the remaining 847 applications was not specified. These delays have been attributed to several factors, including an unexpected surge in applications, a high number of incomplete or unclear submissions, and resource constraints within the BSR. Developers have expressed concerns that these bottlenecks are hindering essential housing projects, including student accommodations and build-to-rent homes. The BSR has acknowledged these challenges and is working to stabilise and improve the building control approval process for higher-risk buildings. They emphasise the importance of submitting clear and comprehensive applications to facilitate quicker decision-making and reduce delays. It seems there is still some confusion over the process with contractors and developers. In short, Gateway 2 compliance is about proving to the Building Safety Regulator that the design of a higher-risk building meets all safety requirements before work starts on
Family-owned construction firm Beard has unveiled details of the most successful trading period in its 133-year history, with turnover rising by 10% and approaching £200m in 2024. In the full year to 31 December 2024, the company turned over £198m, with pre-tax profits reaching £5.2million in a strong performance underpinned by the completion of 43 projects from its offices in Bristol, Guildford, Oxford, Southampton and Swindon. It also saw a successful year for Beard’s newest office in Southampton, which opened in January 2024, and successfully achieved its targets by turning over £4.8million. Finance director, Fraser Johns, said: “Having laid the foundations in 2023, we worked hard to continue this momentum into 2024 and are pleased to once again to report strong results. “We’ve delivered projects for our customers across all our specialist sectors, including education, leisure and commercial. It was also an outstanding year for our special projects teams. “While it’s been a more favourable trading environment from that of recent years, a continued focus on the basics of building construction has been a key driver. “We start 2025 with a healthy pipeline of work, supporting our ambitions for further business improvement and growth.” Laying foundations for success Investing in people has continued to be a core focus for Beard, with new and enhanced training programmes developed and delivered. This included EmpowerHer, a bespoke training course to support women in construction. Beard also formalised its approach to supporting communities, with social value coordinators appointed in each region to support the firm’s charitable, developmental, and sustainability ambitions. With match funding from The Beard Charitable Foundation, colleagues raised more than £100,000 for 14 different charities and good causes in 2024. During 2024, Beard was also amongst the first cohort to be awarded the Fair Payment Code bronze award, which replaced the Prompt Payment Code in December 2024, demonstrating its commitment to supporting supply chain partners. Delivering for customers At the heart of this is Beard’s work for its customers across the south of England. Project highlights from 2024 included: Fraser added: “This wouldn’t have been possible without our skilled and supportive supply chain who help us to deliver prompt and faultless work for our customers, and our project partners, who trust us with their visions. “A huge thank you must also go to all our Beard colleagues who are dedicated to delivering the very best on every project, as well as continually developing themselves and staying true to Beard’s values. It’s a collective success for us all.” To find out more about Beard, visit www.beardconstruction.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Baxi is encouraging social housing providers to ensure they have robust clean heat strategies in place for both new build and refurbishment projects following funding announcements in the Spring Statement. The call follows the government’s allocation of £2 billion to support the development of 18,000 new affordable homes, half of which is allocated for social housing. This funding for new build homes sits alongside the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund in place to retrofit existing social housing and improve energy efficiency. Rob Pearse, Residential Business Director at Baxi, said: “The £2 billion set aside for social housing in the Spring Statement must be used with sustainability in mind, which includes the long-term comfort and financial security of tenants as well as electrified heating. This can be achieved by working closely with manufacturers who have expertise in the sustainable heating of social housing and a raft of solutions able to match almost any requirements. “Delivering clean heat in social housing sector can be challenging, and we intend to support providers from the earliest steps of their net zero journey. It is important to identify the system that delivers the best efficiency, cost and environmental results for the building and occupants. Working closely with experts and the wider supply chain can provide the expertise and solutions to do this successfully for both new build and retrofit.” Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are a key route to clean heat for both new build and retrofit social housing projects, though design challenges for retrofit and skills shortages for installers can be a barrier to social housing providers. To assist the sector with implementation, Baxi has developed a broad portfolio of heat pump solutions suitable for new build and retrofit, along with extensive training, commissioning services and customer support. This includes new prefabricated pod options for new build and retrofit that bring the ASHP system into a pre-assembled unit, manufactured offsite by Baxi Packaged Solutions (BPS). Using Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) to deliver a more sustainable solution makes the installation significantly faster and simpler and removes the need for major modifications inside the home. This in turn makes low-carbon heating and hot water more accessible in social housing. For larger developments and multiple occupancy buildings, Baxi‘s expert full-service heat network team offer support with design and implementation of end-to-end solutions, including social housing developments. Where zoning policy mandates that heat networks must connect to a larger scheme, consultation with experts, such as those at Baxi, can support a smoother integration with the wider network. Rob said. “Achieving decarbonisation requires a combination of bespoke plans and expertise in heating and hot water solutions. “At Baxi, we have the range of solutions to deliver on energy efficiency and net zero targets, along with the vital experience to support social housing providers in delivering clean heat across new build and retrofit. With the funding discussed in the Spring Statement, we are encouraging all social housing providers to stay ahead of the curve by exploring the solutions available for their projects.” For more on how to decarbonise social housing properties, see Baxi.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Round Hill Capital, a leading global specialist real estate investor, developer and manager, has recently topped out on its Fairfax build-to-rent development in central Manchester. With BTR specialist Olympian Homes acting as lead developer and RG Group as main contractor, topping out was achieved eight weeks ahead of schedule. Acquired via a forward funding agreement in August 2022, the development, one of the largest in the central Manchester area, totals 488 one-and-two-bed, high quality apartments across two buildings, of 29 and 23 storeys respectively. Residents will benefit from exceptional amenities including a gym, 24-hour concierge, co-working space and roof terrace with panoramic views of the city skyline. Due to achieve practical completion in early 2026, the asset will be operated by Round Hill Capital and Allsop. Serving as the gateway to the Portugal Street East masterplan regeneration area, the project is less than a kilometre from the city centre. Appealing to a wide demographic of young professionals, families and students, the development is located next to Piccadilly Station, the largest train station in the city, which provides excellent connectivity across the region and wider UK. The scheme is on track to achieve a BREEAM Very Good certification. In line with Round Hill Capital’s commitment to embedding technology in its business and its focus on sustainability, Utopi has been engaged to provide accurate tenant meter data in order to assess the environmental impact of the buildings, positively engage with the future residents, and deliver insightful environmental reporting to Round Hill Capital stakeholders. In 2024, Round Hill Capital secured a £115 million development loan from global investment firm Carlyle (NASDAQ: CG) to fund the construction of Fairfax. With higher-than-average annual GDP growth of 2.2% forecast over the next five years and a growing population, Manchester will require over 170,000 new homes by 2038, with only 70,000 planned or underway, positioning the UK’s largest regional urban centre as an attractive location for investment in high quality rental homes.* Tom France, Head of Acquisitions UK, Round Hill Capital, commented: “Fairfax is our prime, flagship UK build-to-rent development, and just one example of the high quality, sustainable homes in our established pan-European Living platform. Reaching the highest point in the construction ahead of schedule is a fantastic achievement and testament to the collaborative efforts of everyone involved in the project, including the Round Hill Capital team, Olympian Homes and RG Group, all of whom share a commitment to delivering much needed rental homes in central Manchester, where housing supply is still not meeting demand. Manchester is a sought-after location in the UK, attracting young professionals and students and where technology, engineering, manufacturing and pharmaceutical businesses are thriving, creating a huge investment opportunity.” *Sources: Colliers’, UK’s Top UK Residential Investment Cities report / Savills, “Why invest in Manchester” Autumn 2023 report. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Multiplex is gearing up to commence the main build phase of the £1bn Fifty Fenchurch Street development in London this summer. With Keltbray now completing piling and excavation works, Multiplex is preparing to take over as the main contractor for the 36-storey, 650,000 sq ft office tower, developed by AXA IM Alts. Awarded the contract in June 2024, Multiplex aims to complete the project by 2028. AXA IM Alts previously worked with Multiplex on the construction of 22 Bishopsgate, which was completed in 2020 and has recently reached full occupancy. Designed by Eric Parry Architects, Fifty Fenchurch Street is set to be one of the UK’s most sustainable and biodiverse high-rise office buildings, targeting BREEAM Outstanding and net zero in operation. The tower will feature internal and external gardens on the 10th floor, along with over 40 planted balconies and terraces. Each upper-level office floor will include two terraces with shrubs and flowering plants, enhancing both biodiversity and employee wellbeing. The development will also incorporate a new subterranean livery hall for The Clothworkers’ Company and the restoration of Lambe’s Chapel Crypt beneath the tower. Rob Samuel, UK head of development at AXA IM Alts, commented:“Our success at 22 Bishopsgate confirmed the importance of designing workspaces that evolve with occupiers’ needs, encouraging employees to return to the office. At Fifty Fenchurch Street, we are delivering exactly that—a landmark structure that blends best-in-class office space with green public areas while preserving the City of London’s heritage.” Fifty Fenchurch Street is set to redefine sustainable office design in the capital, offering a future-focused workspace that integrates nature, innovation, and history. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Specialist capital advisory firm Arc & Co. has closed a 70% LTV debt package in partnership with Ingenious Capital Management, whilst also sourcing a JV equity investor to support the development of a purpose-built student accommodation project in Tower Hamlets, London. Southern Grove is developing the 111-bed, £36m GDV scheme in a joint venture with Falco Group. Andrey Redman, Director at Arc & Co., structured the debt with the Ingenious and Falco teams over a period of eight weeks. Andrey commented: “It is a pleasure to support ambitious developers who are acquiring and building to provide much-needed homes in the popular PBSA, BTR and co-living sectors. “Arc & Co. has the necessary expertise and deep relationships to source funding partners that have the right appetite and experience to back these ambitious strategies. “Our advisory approach ensures that the structuring results in the best possible outcome for the borrower—now and as part of their future business plans. “We are excited to support all parties as they bring their strategies to fruition.” The Tower Hamlets scheme will have a gross internal area of 43,249 sq ft, 5,382 sq ft of which will be commercial space. Construction is set to begin in Q4 this year. Southern Grove has ambitions to deliver 50,000 across its living sector brands, with 5,000 planned for 2024 alone. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
St John Ambulance launches Hi Vis Stress Vest campaign and new mental health first aid course. St John Ambulance has today launched a campaign to get construction workers to open up about their mental health after new research* found nearly seven in 10 have suspected a colleague was seriously depressed but felt it too difficult to talk about. Such is the taboo around the topic that 71% of research respondents admitted to giving their employer a different reason, such as a physical illness, for taking time off for mental health. Nearly four in 10, 39%, would rather quit their job than tell someone at work. The health charity has released the stark findings as it introduces a mental health first aid course that uses real-life scenarios to train workers to spot hidden signs, start difficult conversations and create workplaces where colleagues feel safe to share their problems. It hopes to kickstart these vital conversations by sharing limited edition “Hi Vis Stress Vests” with construction companies and celebrities including TV builder Tommy Walsh and construction entrepreneur Daniel Ashville Louisy. The back of each high-visibility jacket features a statement, such as “No-one will miss me when I’m gone”, to express some of the invisible mental distress that many builders don’t feel able to talk about. The research of 500 construction workers also revealed nearly a third, 31%, describe their current state as “struggling”, “overwhelmed” or “suicidal”, while 82% say they’ve suffered with a mental health challenge at some point in their career in the trade. Nearly a tenth, 8% have left their job as a result of mental health challenges, while 28% have considered leaving; more than a fifth, 21%, have taken over five sick days for the same reason. Nearly half, 48%, say their current levels of stress and anxiety are having a negative impact on their work. Peer pressure Although nearly two-thirds of respondents, 65%, agree it is healthier to share struggles about stress, anxiety or depression, nearly half (48%) think they’ll lose the trust and respect of their colleagues if they don’t put on a brave face. More than a fifth, 22%, believe doing so would be letting the team down, a fifth are too embarrassed and 14% believe they’ll be laughed at. However, more than half, 54%, of respondents said they would be more likely to share their problems if they had a trained mental health first aider on site. Six in 10, 60%, would like to see their employer do more to support mental health in their workplace. Lisa Sharman, head of education and commercial training at St John Ambulance, says: “We know that opening up about a mental health problem with someone who’s ready to listen is the first step towards getting vital help. Our research shows that those working in the construction sector find it particularly difficult to share what they’re going through. We’re confident that our Hi Vis Stress Vests will help get the conversation started. “However, we urge construction leaders to go further and equip themselves and employees with the skills to spot signs and start the difficult chats. St John’s new face-to-face mental health first aid course is interactive and practical, meaning employees find it engaging and leave with the tools to make a real difference to the wellbeing of the people around them.” Wellbeing manager at construction giant BAM, Rhianwen Conron, recently used the Hi Vis Stress Vests at a session for 10 workers. She says: “The messages on the back of the vests are very powerful and proved to be effective conversation starters. “I’m fully in support of this campaign. Anything that prompts our people to start opening up is valuable and having something physical to focus on, like these Hi Vis Stress Vests, is hugely helpful. “I think every construction company should be training people to hold these kinds of wellbeing conversations.” Jon Clayden, former project lead at construction giant ISG, which went into administration last year, says: “The building site is a tough and stressful environment, and whilst over the 30 years I’ve been in the industry, I’ve seen some improvements in mental health conversations, we still have a long way to go. “I’ve known people struggling with mental health issues, and the silence often comes from them simply not knowing how to approach it. “Mental health first aid training has been a critical experience for me, as it’s allowed me to spot signs and support my colleagues who find it challenging to speak up. It’s also given me the skillset to approach them first and show that someone is looking out for them. Having someone to speak to in confidence can be life-saving.” For more information visit sja.org.uk/hivis. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
