County Down headquartered Graham is supporting staff welfare by investing in the mental health and wellbeing of its 2,000 workers and 4,300 subcontractors.

The business has trained over 80 additional staff members to take up the role as Mental Health First Aiders (MHFA) across the business in a move that will guide and support staff and subcontractors through one of the most challenging economic periods in our modern history. 

The campaign will also be supported by Graham's new online Wellbeing Hub, which acts as a point of reference for any employee who needs support and guidance. The Hub will offer up a host of information on mental health and wellbeing resources including access to counselling and support programmes. 

Complementing the offering will be regular 'toolbox talks' that address mental health and wellbeing topics allowing teams to engage with each other on subject-specific dialogues. 

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This laser focus on the mental wellbeing of employees comes during a time of grave economic uncertainty and follows on from Graham's recent win at the NI Health & Fitness Awards where it received an award for the 'Best Corporate Wellness Programme'.

Michael Smyth, HR Director, Graham, said: "Construction has always been considered a macho industry where employees haven’t previously felt comfortable speaking up if they are suffering with their mental health. 

"We feel it is our duty as an employer to act as a figurehead and lead the way when it comes to addressing sensitive issues and that’s exactly what we have chosen to do by pioneering a programme and environment that removes the stigma around mental health issues and replaces it with solutions and support. 

"Our programme also embraces inclusion and by valuing individuals and promoting a culture of wellbeing to which people respond positively, it allows them to thrive and achieve personal and professional success.

"We have actioned a number of new plans including training an additional 80 employees as certified mental health first aiders. These staff members work across all our departments in the UK and Ireland - from offices to live sites — and they are now readily available to talk to any one of our staff or supply chain employees who needs support and guidance."