Hire sector’s mental health campaign gathers pace

THE hire industry’s campaign to support mental health across the sector’s workforce is gathering pace after a second event at Boels’ depot in Stoke-on-Trent which focused on financial wellbeing.

Now hosts Asif Latief (MD of Boels Rental) and Hire Association Europe and Event Hire Association (HAE EHA) are looking for an even larger venue to stage the next session.

The #UnitedforMentalStrength initiative is linking up with various agencies, including construction charity The Lighthouse Club.

HAE EHA provides an employee assistance programme free of charge for members with up to 100 employees. The organisation is also directing people to agencies that can help with mental health issues, including Action for Mental HealthHealthy Minds and Mental Health Matters.

#UnitedForMentalStrength is a collaborative approach spearheaded by Asif Latief and supported by Paul Gaze, CEO of HAE EHA. The aim is to raise awareness of common mental health issues that affect the workforce.

Asif Latief said, “The 10th of October is World Mental Health Day but HAE EHA are making mental health and wellbeing a priority all year round. Factoring in the current cost-of-living crisis and soaring energy bills will increase stress levels for a lot of people. However, one thing is clear, there are a lot of resources to get help with your mental health if you know where to look for it.”

Paul Gaze added, “Education is key. Often people don’t feel comfortable raising personal issues and then muddle along until they can cope no longer. Our campaign can help people recognise the signs and symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression before they get out of hand, as well as giving businesses the tools and knowledge to assist employees with recovery.”

Participating businesses in the #UnitedForMentalStrength campaign, which will be promoted at the Executive Hire Show in February 2023, include: Boels Rental, Banner Plant, HSS Hire, SHC Hire, Speedy Hire, Mr Plant Hire, Ardent Hire Solutions, One Stop Hire, Jewson, Adlington Welding Supplies Ltd, Towergate Insurance Brokers, Sunbelt Rentals, Travis Perkins, Vp Brandon Hire Station, Salford Red Devils Foundation, HSC Group, inspHire, and Garic.