Our project teams work incredibly hard, delivering to tight deadlines at times. As projects change and challenges arise during construction, new solutions need to be found. Sometimes as a result, we can neglect our own needs, in our personal desire to get the job done.

This can take a toll on our mental health.

Statistics suggest that in any one year, approximately one in four people will experience at least one diagnosable mental health issue. The long-standing stigma surrounding mental health means that many people have a limited understanding of the issues and there is still a reluctance for people to seek help and support.

At Knights Brown we want to change that so in August 2019, we ran our first Mental Health First Aid training course.

We now have 12 people from all parts of the business, equipped with the skills and tools to help themselves and their colleagues maintain good mental health.

This is leading the way in creating a culture where people feel that they can speak up, seek advice and be heard. Listening is a skill in itself, so the training equips the ‘first aiders’ to closely listen to provide the best support for colleagues.

Being in good mental health means as individuals we’re able to cope with life, make the most of our potential, and play a full part in our lives at home, at work, and in our community.

At Knights Brown, we pride ourselves on our close-knit teams and our family feel. We want our people to be able to talk freely about mental health, to seek help when they need it, and know what resources and services are available should they need them.

Our mental health first aiders have been trained to spot the signs of mental health issues and are equipped with the skills and resources to help guide individuals to the appropriate support.

It’s World Mental Health Awareness Day on 10 October 2019. Mental Health awareness is an everyday issue which we take seriously all year round at Knights Brown.