For 2025, the global theme is “Access to Services - Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies”, a reminder that mental health support must remain within reach, even in times of crisis.

At DRG Interior & Building Solutions, we believe that our industry is built on more than structures and materials, it’s built on people. Every site, every project, every space we complete exists because of the hard work, skill, and dedication of the people behind it. That’s why we are proud to support The Lighthouse Construction Charity, an organisation that provides essential emotional, physical, and financial wellbeing support for those working across the construction sector.

The construction industry has long been a source of pride in the UK, representing resilience, skill, and craftsmanship. But behind the scaffolding and steel, there’s a growing issue that can’t be ignored. Mental health challenges have reached alarming levels within our field. Statistics show that the rate of suicide among construction workers is three times the national average, and that, on average, two workers take their own lives every working day. Stress, anxiety, and depression account for roughly one-fifth of all work-related illnesses in the sector.

Construction work is demanding by nature. Long hours, tight deadlines, frequent travel, physical strain, and financial or job insecurity can all take their toll. For many, the pressures of the job are compounded by a culture that, historically, has encouraged people to “just get on with it.” But silence comes at a cost, not only to individuals and families, but to teams, productivity, and the overall wellbeing of the workforce. We can no longer afford to view mental health as a private matter or an afterthought. It’s time to treat it with the same importance as physical safety.

Lighthouse, The Construction Charity, is the UK’s only charity entirely dedicated to the emotional, physical, and financial wellbeing of construction workers and their families. Through their 24/7 helpline, live chat, and text support services, they offer a lifeline to anyone in need of guidance, counselling, or crisis support. They also provide local ‘Beacon’ groups where people can meet, talk, and share experiences, as well as training sessions and wellbeing education to help create safer, more supportive workplaces.

Lighthouse’s ‘Help Inside the Hard Hat’ campaign has been a vital force in breaking down stigma across sites nationwide. Their message is clear: no one should suffer in silence. Importantly, the charity receives no public funding and relies solely on the generosity and commitment of the industry it serves. That’s why at DRG, we continue to stand alongside them. We believe that supporting Lighthouse is not only an act of compassion but also a statement of our values, safety, care, and responsibility. When we invest in mental health, we invest in our people, our communities, and the sustainability of our industry.

We recognise that supporting mental health means turning words into action. This year, for World Mental Health Day, we are focusing on connection and conversation. Across our offices and sites, we’re encouraging open dialogue, whether that’s through informal “Tea & Talk” sessions, toolbox talks that include wellbeing topics, or leadership sharing their own reflections and experiences. We want to ensure that every person in our business, knows that it’s okay to speak up and ask for help.

Our commitment extends beyond the 10th of October. We are working to embed mental health awareness into our company culture by training mental health first aiders, and creating spaces where wellbeing is regularly discussed, not just during awareness campaigns. We are also maintaining a partnership with The Lighthouse Construction Charity, promoting their resources and helplines to our teams and encouraging participation in their programmes. Our goal is simple, to make mental health part of everyday safety, not an exception.

Mental health is not a soft issue; it is a serious and measurable factor in the safety and success of our industry. The 2025 theme of “Access to Services in Emergencies” reminds us that crises don’t pause for mental health. Whether we’re facing personal hardship, industry pressures, or global challenges, support must always be within reach.

We encourage every company in the construction sector, from large contractors to small family-run firms like us to take action. Make mental health visible. Talk about it openly. Partner with organisations like Lighthouse. Invest in training, create systems for early support, and lead by example. The change we need begins with awareness, but it only endures through consistent action.

Mental health doesn’t have to be hidden behind hard hats and high-vis vests. Together, we can make sure that help is always just a conversation away.

For anyone in the construction community who needs support, The Lighthouse Construction Charity offers a free 24/7 helpline at 0345 605 1956, or you can text HARDHAT to 85258. More information and resources are available at lighthousecharity.org.

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