Shufflebottom and Lighthouse Charity – working together for the wellbeing of the construction workforce

As a structural steel business that has been at the forefront of the construction sector for nearly fifty years, Shufflebottom understands the many pressures that our employees face when “life” happens. Many of our employees, whether in the office, on the factory floor, or on site, will negotiate emotional, physical and financial challenges that affect them and their families.

Too often in the past, people have suffered in silence and alone due to stigmatisation. However, statistics show that they are not alone and that stress, depression and anxiety account for 20% of work-related illnesses in our industry. Statistics also reflect a construction sector in a mental health crisis, with over 7,000 lives lost to suicide in the decade 2014-2024, figures which are way above the national average.

In line with our social value commitments, Shufflebottom is working with the Lighthouse Charity to create a working environment where each other’s needs are fully supported. The Lighthouse Charity has long been 100% committed to the emotional, physical and financial wellbeing of our construction workers and their families. Founded in 1956, the charity is well respected in the industry for its positive impact on people’s lives through a range of initiatives.

Shufflebottom therefore wanted to shine a spotlight on this great charity and so our Mental Aid representatives at Shufflebottom recently arranged for the Lighthouse Charity to visit our Cross Hands HQ.

The Lighthouse Charity representative, Ceryn Turner, gave an inspirational and meaningful presentation to our office and those on the factory floor about the fantastic initiatives the Lighthouse Charity runs across the UK to promote mental health and wellbeing. It was an inspiring day and encouraging to hear that mental health is being equated with physical health in such an open and accessible way. She guided Shufflebottom employees to the Lighthouse Charity website www.lighthousecharity.org which outlines all that’s happening with Lighthouse to support construction workers and their families when they need help. This includes a range of support services, access to clubs across the UK and crucially, a 24/7 confidential helpline for those times when you need to talk in confidence.

Shufflebottom would like to thank Ceryn and the Lighthouse Charity for such an insightful day. We recognise that wellbeing equates to wealth in the broadest sense and we look forward to continuing our close association with Lighthouse as we work to promote a happy, supportive and productive workforce.