Industry loses 'one person a week' as pandemic takes toll on mental health
The Ministry of Education and MATES in Construction have signed a two-year partnership in a bid to prevent suicides in New Zealand's construction sector.
Under the partnership, MATES in Construction will enlist field officers who will visit school construction sites to implement a programme that will improve workplaces to boost construction workers' mental health.
Volunteers will also be trained and guided so they can help promote a mentally healthier workplace and offer relevant support to those in need, according to the announcement.
"We know that there are many young people out there who are keen to pursue work in construction. This initiative helps make sure that we are setting up a safe work environment for them to thrive," said Scott Evans, Leader (Hautū) Infrastructure and Digital, in a statement.
The partnership comes as the construction industry loses "nearly one person every week to suicide," according to Evans, and as 43% of workers in the sector admitted to suffering from worsened mental health due to the pandemic.
"As one of the agencies that work closely with the construction sector, it is crucial for us to help do something about this important issue," said Evans. "We work alongside them every day as they help us build safe and fit for purpose learning spaces for our rangatahi, so we are in a strategic position to proactively extend the help and support they need."
Read more: WorkSafe renews calls for safety on construction sites
Victoria McArthur, chief executive officer of MATES in Construction New Zealand, said the Ministry of Education's decision to partner with them is a "significant leadership move."
"The MATES programme is a community development model delivered in a workplace setting. It will bring together the whole site, enabling everyone to support their mates and know how to connect into help when needed," said McArthur.
"We are thrilled to be welcoming the Ministry of Education as a foundation partner, and we're looking forward to working alongside them across their programme of works."
The programme will be initially rolled out in school construction sites across Wellington and Auckland, before being expanded across the country.
Anyone who wishes to access support or counselling in relation to suicide and loss can reach out to one of the following resources:
- Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor.
- Lifeline - 0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE) or free text 4357 (HELP)
- Suicide Crisis Helpline - 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
- Healthline - 0800 611 116
