How Construction Can Make Peer Support Safer

In this episode of Build and Thrive, host Stuart Mace is joined by Paul McGregor, founder and CEO of Everymind at Work, for a conversation about mental health first aid, peer support and what organisations need to do once awareness has been raised.

Paul explains why many businesses, including those in construction, have trained large numbers of mental health first aiders but still lack the structure, data and support needed to make those networks safe and effective.

The conversation explores the difference between mental health training in society and mental health first aid as a workplace role. Stuart and Paul discuss the foreseeable risks faced by mental health first aiders, the importance of duty of care, and why supporters themselves need proper guidance, debriefing and ongoing development.

For construction, this episode is especially relevant. It asks what comes after awareness, why “more” is not always better, and how organisations can move towards quality, visibility and accountability in their mental health support.

What we cover:

• Why mental health first aiders need support too
• The difference between awareness and capability
• Why workplace peer support needs structure
• How data can help organisations understand what is really happening
• The risks of unsupported mental health first aid networks
• Why work-related issues are showing up in mental health conversations
• The role of HR, health and safety, and occupational health

🎧 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2431164 (or search your podcast app)

📺 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEoibJLDuFnnT3qSQw37LKPG6xlyvCj7B 

🔹 Thank you to our sponsor, GKR Scaffolding, for supporting this series and helping us share our mission of improving health and wellbeing in construction.

Episode Links:

Stuart Mace: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuartmace/

Construction Health & Wellbeing: https://constructionhealth.co.uk/

Paul McGregor:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pmcgregorcom/

Everymind at Work:

• Website: https://everymindatwork.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/everymindatwork/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everymindatwork/
• X: https://twitter.com/everymindatwork
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/everymindatwork/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm2D3TwiJAadtG_2X1BZwDw

GKR Scaffolding (sponsor): https://gkrscaffolding.co.uk/ 

Are you investing in a healthier and happier workforce? Want a free 30 minute strategy call to ensure you're on the right path. 

Email support@constructionhealth.co.uk