The new assessment aims to encourage construction firms to demonstrate a proactive approach to mental health and wellbeing
The question set is integrated as a voluntary module within the core Veriforce CHAS assessment, encouraging industry leaders to promote best practice within their organisation and the wider supply chain.
Recent studies have revealed concerning rates of mental health issues within the UK construction industry. A survey of 1,400 on-site construction workers by Causeway Technologies found 56% had encountered mental health problems and 12% had experienced suicidal thoughts.
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Furthermore, a Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) survey, published in 2020, found that almost half (44%) of construction professionals work for organisations that have no policy for mental health and wellbeing in the workplace.
By completing the new assessment, contractors can demonstrate their approach to mental health and wellbeing across the workforce.
Clients will be able to access information about contractors’ approach to mental health and wellbeing through the Veriforce CHAS Client Portal.
Mental health pledge
The launch of the assessment follows Veriforce CHAS's collaboration with Causeway Technologies, supporting a mental health pledge for the construction industry and advocating for the prioritisation of mental health and wellbeing assessment in procurement processes.
Ian McKinnon, managing director of Veriforce CHAS, said: "At Veriforce CHAS, we have a long history of setting compliance benchmarks and raising health and safety standards and the launch of the Veriforce CHAS mental health and wellbeing question set is an important milestone in this journey.”
McKinnon added: “We hope that this heralds a new era where mental health and wellbeing are prioritised alongside traditional safety measures and mental health and wellbeing assessment becomes a standard element of the prequalification process.”
Mental health support and advice for CIOB members, past members and related family is available through CIOB Assist. CIOB, in partnership with Anxiety UK, also provides wellbeing support.
For additional support or advice, contact the Samaritans by calling 116 123. Alternatively, you can also access support via the industry charity Lighthouse Club. You can call the support line on 0345 605 1956 or text HARDHAT to 85258.
