Mental Health Awareness Week runs from 12–18 May, and this year’s theme, set by the Mental Health Foundation, is ‘community’ — a reminder of the importance of connection and support in maintaining our wellbeing.

At McLaughlin & Harvey, we believe that caring for our mental health is just as vital as staying physically well. Being part of a positive, supportive community — both on and off site — plays a key role in helping us feel safe, connected, and valued. Even the smallest act of support can make a meaningful difference.

We’re proud to have 128 trained Mental Health First Aiders across the business. They’re equipped to spot the early signs of mental health issues, offer a listening ear, and guide people toward the right professional support when needed.

To mark Mental Health Awareness Week, we’re running a series of webinars open to all colleagues across our sites. These sessions are designed to help foster a culture where mental health is openly talked about — and where no one feels they must face challenges alone.

Monday: We have invited Steve Carr, a mental health, workplace wellbeing & suicide first aid trainer from MindCanyon to host our first session. MindCanyon is a UK-based organisation dedicated to enhancing mental health and wellbeing in workplaces.

Tuesday: We have a Toolbox talk on mental health awareness from our Black Hat Supervisors who play a vital role in fostering a supportive environment on construction sites. The talk aims to reinforce best practices and give advice on spotting the early signs of mental health issues.

Wednesday: We’ve organised office and site stand downs for community events organised at each site and office location. Each event aims to raise awareness of mental wellbeing. The stand downs are an opportunity to pause work activities, allowing our teams to have open discussions and take a break to focus on their mental health. Speak to your head of site for more information on what has been planned at your site.

Thursday: We’ve planned a Toolbox talk on wellbeing from our Black Hat Supervisors – a short session focussing on promoting awareness of mental and emotional health on-site. The talk will share tips on how to can look after yourself and each other.

Friday:  A review of the week and a presentation from The Lighthouse Club, a charity dedicated to the emotional, physical, and financial wellbeing of construction workers and their families.

To access further information on the mental health and wellbeing support available at McLaughlin & Harvey, visit our wellbeing hub Wellbeing | YouMatter or our people can speak to a mental health first aider – their details are available on site noticeboards.