The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has joined forces with the NHS Wales Suicide Prevention and Self Harm Programme to launch a vital suicide awareness and support campaign across construction sites in Wales. This initiative aims to tackle the high suicide rates in the construction sector by raising awareness, reducing stigma, and signposting workers to essential support services.
Suicide awareness campaign
A nationwide poster campaign will be rolled out across Welsh construction sites, accompanied by practical resources such as short ‘toolbox talks’ on suicide awareness training. The programme is designed to encourage open conversations about mental health and ensure workers know where to access support before reaching a crisis point.
Male suicide rates in Wales are over three times higher than female rates, and construction remains one of the industries most affected by suicide. Contributing factors include job insecurity, short-term contracts, financial pressures, fatigue from long working hours, and a workplace culture where discussing mental health is often seen as taboo. The campaign’s core message is that early help saves lives.
Major projects backing the initiative
The initiative launched at two high-profile events: one at the site of the new Velindre Cancer Centre in Cardiff, led by Sacyr, which is set to open in spring 2027, and another at a new school development in Flintshire, North Wales. At the Cardiff launch, Julie Morgan, Member of the Senedd for Cardiff North, expressed her support, emphasising the importance of tackling stigma and enabling workers to speak freely about mental health challenges.
CITB and NHS Wales collaboration
This partnership highlights a collective effort to improve the mental health and wellbeing of construction workers in Wales. Julia Stevens, Engagement Director for Wales at CITB, said: “There has been lots of positive progress in the construction industry in recent years to raise awareness of mental health challenges, reduce stigma, and enhance access to support. This initiative is one of many taking place across the industry to improve mental health and wellbeing. We’re proud that this campaign will further build on this momentum to create meaningful change and save lives.”
Dr Chris O’Connor, Clinical Lead for Mental Health at NHS Wales, added: “Stigma can be a huge barrier to people accessing mental health support. By raising awareness of suicide risk and signposting available services, we hope to encourage construction workers to have important conversations, support each other, and feel confident to reach out for help.”
Ongoing support for the industry
Since 2020, CITB has supported over 52,000 individuals to complete mental health first aid and awareness training. This new initiative adds to ongoing efforts to create a supportive culture across the construction sector.
Key support services include:
- National Advisory and Liaison Service Cymru: 08000 487742
- C.A.L.L. Mental Health Helpline: 0800 132737
- Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity: 0345 605 1956 or text HARDHAT to 85258
- NHS 111 Wales – Press 2: 24/7 urgent mental health support
By championing awareness and providing clear pathways to help, the CITB and NHS Wales partnership marks a crucial step forward in protecting mental health and preventing suicide within the Welsh construction industry.
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