New mental health in construction code of practice launched

A new Joint Code of Practice designed to prevent poor mental health in construction is now available for the industry to use.

Published by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC), the code seeks to address the high rates of suicide in the sector. It notes that for men working in UK construction, they are almost four times higher than the national average.

The code places a focus on prevention, highlighting that current efforts to improve mental health have focused mainly on intervention, once people are already struggling.

“We are still losing far too many people working in construction to suicide and behind every number is a family, a friend, a colleague whose life has been cut short. That is simply not good enough,” said UK Minister for Industry, Chris McDonald.

“This code is about facing up to that reality and taking action early, so people get the support they need before it reaches crisis point,” added McDonald, who also co-chairs the CLC.

What does the code cover?

The CLC worked with sector partners, mental health organisations and the University of Warwick to ensure the code is informed by real industry experience and supported by academic evidence.

Through focus groups and consultation responses, they have identified five core factors that impact the workforce’s mental health:

• Working patterns (e.g. long hours, shift patterns, excessive travel)
• Operational demands (e.g. unachievable deadlines, poor planning and communication)
• People and work environment (e.g. limited support, bullying and harassment)
• Financial issues (e.g. late payments, job insecurity)
• Support factors (e.g. stigma around mental health)

The code provides practical solutions to enable clients, employers and the supply chain to address these factors. It’s intended as a ‘living framework’ or a baseline that will be developed over time as more data and case studies become available.

It will be trialled at two new The Crown Estate developments in London: 33 Piccadilly and 10 Piccadilly.

ICE director general Dr Janet Young – who sits on the CLC’s board as industry lead for infrastructure – encouraged all members to use the code.

“We all have a role to play in improving mental health across the construction and infrastructure sectors. No one should be left to face these challenges alone, which is why this joint code is such an important step forward.

“By focusing on prevention and addressing the factors that can contribute to poor mental health, we can create healthier, more supportive workplaces. I encourage members to adopt the code within their organisations and help ensure mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health.

“I’d also like to remind ICE members that support is available from the ICE Benevolent Fund, which offers a range of services, including counselling.”

Access the code