MENTAL HEALTH
feels they must struggle alone. This important work will continue to be a priority for FMB NI.” The collective approach taken by BMHA ensures that businesses of every size can access practical information, resources and signposting, regardless of their own organisational capacity. Industry support continues to grow One recent example came when Northstone Sales and Marketing Director Steven Oldham brought together around 11 novice and experienced hikers to take on the Mourne Mountains in support of Lighthouse Charity. Fundraising supports their 24/7 helpline and 1:1 online chat service which is dedicated to construction workers and their families. Since the local committee relaunched, significant funds have been raised to support the charity’s services locally. Additionally, awareness and take up of the charity’s support from local construction workers has increased significantly and there are currently 75 Northern Irish construction firms partnered with and supporting the charity’s important work. Steven Oldham, Sales and Marketing Director at Northstone Materials and member of the Northern Ireland Lighthouse Charity Committee, said, “As a member of the Northern Ireland Lighthouse Charity Committee, our aim is to raise awareness of the vital support available to people working in the construction industry and their families. Lighthouse provides emotional, physical and financial wellbeing support, and we want more people to know that help is available whenever they need it. “This cause is particularly close to my heart, having lost my brother to suicide in 2019. That experience showed me how important it is to break down the stigma around mental health and encourage people to reach out for support. Through the charity hike I am organising as part of my work with Northstone Materials Ltd, and through the wider work of Lighthouse, we hope to start conversations, raise awareness and remind people that they do not have to face challenges alone.” Steven’s efforts are part of a growing industry-wide commitment to promoting wellbeing and encouraging more people to access support. Commenting on the impact of this
O’Neill said, “Mental health remains stigmatised, treatments and services are available, but too many people suffer without getting the support that they need. The work of the Building Mental Health Alliance is therefore of vital importance in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of the people who work in the construction industry. I’m grateful to the Alliance for the life-changing support that they offer and for opening up space to normalise getting help.” Increasingly, employers recognise that supporting mental health is not only the right thing to do, but also contributes to safer workplaces, improved staff retention and a more resilient workforce. By continuing to work together, Northern Ireland’s construction sector can help create a culture where mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health and where nobody faces challenges alone. Where to find support Building Mental Health Alliance: Contact for employer resource packs, awareness materials, downloads and training resources - www.nisg.org.uk/building- mental-health Lighthouse Charity: www. lighthousecharity.org
growing industry support, Sarah Bolton, CEO of the Lighthouse Charity, said, “Awareness of our charitable services is being championed across Northern Ireland, and more people are reaching out for the support they need. Collaboration is key to extending our message of support across the industry and beyond the boundaries of the workplace. Our partnership with BMHA makes a real impact and helps to build a positive, open culture where people feel safe, supported and able to start important conversations about wellbeing.” A shared responsibility While awareness campaigns and fundraising activity continue to gain momentum, industry leaders recognise that lasting progress requires sustained commitment. In her 2026 report on strategic mental health priorities, Northern Ireland Mental Health Champion Professor Siobhan O’Neill highlighted the importance of long- term collaboration across government, employers and communities in addressing mental health challenges. The progress made to date shows the value of organisations working together to address a challenge that affects the entire industry. Supporting the need for continued industry-wide action, Northern Ireland Mental Health Champion Professor Siobhan
Samaritans: www.samaritans.org Lifeline: www.lifelinehelpline.info
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