MATES in Mind is offering free mental health workshops for those most at risk during the Covid-19 pandemic, with the support of Tideway, the firm building London’s new sewer.
The charity said that it is expected that workplace mental health issues will be ‘heavily’ impacted because of the ongoing situation. It added that the donation to the Mates in Mind’s Covid-19 relief fund from Tideway will help them continue to support the most vulnerable workers, by addressing gaps in workplace mental health provision for the self-employed and small businesses.
The charity will be delivering ‘urgent’ online mental health workshops and other support for construction workers, with the aim of supporting those who are harder to reach and potentially the most vulnerable.
A target of reaching over 500 individuals has been set by Mates in Mind. The programme funded by Tideway’s donation will include a 12-month support package for 20 small businesses, allowing for access to a dedicated support officer, business assessments, resources and more.
James Rudoni, managing director of Mates in Mind said, “Taking proactive steps to address mental health issues has never been more important as the whole world battles Covid-19. This funding from Tideway will ensure that more vital support gets to those who are finding it difficult to effectively manage their mental health. Helping individuals take control of their mental wellbeing, better manage their anxiety and avoid spiralling into depression or worse.
“By providing individuals and SMEs the opportunity to learn, share and talk about their experiences during Covid-19, we can reach out to those who don’t normally have access to workplace support, such as Small and Medium Enterprises and the self-employed.
“We know that without support, these groups are more at risk of higher levels of stress, depression and suicide. However, with a better understanding of mental health issues and how to address them, this funding can change how people manage their own wellbeing and save lives.”
John Sage, corporate responsibility manager at Tideway added, “Mates in Mind does incredibly important work supporting construction workers’ mental health by ‘starting the conversation’ and their expertise has never been more important than now. The self-employed and those in small construction businesses, who often do not have access to this type of support, are among the most vulnerable to serious mental health problems in this crisis and Tideway is pleased that our donation will help Mates In Mind to reach out to them.“
The Mates in Mind Covid-19 Relief Fund is still open and taking donations, to allow the charity to continue to respond with vital support programmes, including; the delivery of mental health advice, guidance, training and enhanced live on-line support.
To find out more about these workshops and to take part, contact: events@matesinmind.org
