Free digital suicide prevention training has been launched for construction workers, with a particular focus on sole traders and those working in small businesses.

The training, developed by Mates in Mind in partnership with the Baton of Hope and funded by The Royal Foundation of The Prince and Princess of Wales, is being launched ahead of World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September.

Construction workers are among those at highest risk of suicide in the UK, with the rate reported to be 3.7 times the national average. Nearly a third of construction workers have also experienced suicidal thoughts, while almost two-thirds regularly experience stress and half experience anxiety.

Significant pressures

The new training aims to reach workers who may struggle to access conventional mental health support. Research by Mates in Mind found that self-employed construction workers and those in small firms face significant pressures, including intense workloads, financial problems, poor work-life balance and difficulties sourcing materials.

Cost, time and resources can also prevent smaller businesses from providing mental health training. The new digital programme is free and can be accessed via a mobile phone or laptop, allowing workers to complete it wherever and whenever is convenient.

It comprises two modules covering suicide awareness and suicide prevention, with the aim of helping workers recognise signs of mental ill-health and suicidal thoughts in themselves and colleagues, start conversations and signpost people towards support.

Starting conversations

Samantha Downie, managing director of Mates in Mind, said the training would give workers the skills and confidence to start conversations before someone reaches crisis point.

Mike McCarthy, co-founder of the Baton of Hope, said the initiative aimed to bring the same focus to psychological safety that the industry has traditionally placed on physical safety.

The free training is available through the Mates in Mind website.