A study revealed that almost half (48%) of tradespeople spend at least four hours of a typical working day alone
Northern Irish comedian Dave Elliott has said he is “humbled” to be the face of a new mental health campaign focusing on the power of connection for tradespeople.
New research from MacBlair, one of Northern Ireland’s leading builders’ merchants, has revealed that 92% of tradespeople in Northern Ireland say a quick chat with someone during the day has a positive impact on their wellbeing.
The findings come as almost half (48%) of tradespeople spend at least four hours of a typical working day alone, highlighting the important role everyday conversations can play in helping people stay connected.
In light of these figures, MacBlair has launched its ‘How’s the Head?’ campaign, focusing on the value of everyday connections, recognising that while working independently is a valued part of life in the trades, day-to-day interactions with others can play an important role in supporting overall wellbeing.
Speaking to Belfast Live, Dave said he was both surprised yet not shocked to see the figures in relation to tradespeople across Northern Ireland.
“I think that you probably would assume straight away that the trades are always craic 24/7, you know – but at the same time, when you think about it, there are a lot of people that are by themselves when working on jobs,” he explained.
“And when you are isolated, whether while working by yourselt or being alone in general, you can often let issues stew and lead people to struggle a bit.
“I think making people more aware of what’s going on in the industry and maybe a bit less ignorant, because that’s how I would have described myself – I think I was probably ignorant of the stats until I heard them.”
94% of participants agreed that staying in touch with friends and family is important for their overall wellbeing, while 64% say interactions with other people during the working day are very or extremely important.
Working independently is a key part of life in the trades, and the research shows that many tradespeople value the flexibility it brings.
Almost a quarter (24%) say the best thing about working independently is being able to work at their own pace, while 20% value the flexibility it provides and 16% enjoy being their own boss.
The research also highlights the reality that many spend long periods working alone. When asked about the challenges of working alone, 46% cited getting the balance right between work and personal life, followed by the pressure to get jobs completed on time (42%) and managing multiple responsibilities (40%).
As part of this year’s How’s the Head? campaign, MacBlair is encouraging tradespeople to take five minutes for a Builder’s Brew.
Whether it’s checking in with a mate, making a call on the drive between jobs or taking time for a chat over a cup of tea, small everyday conversations can make a real difference.
Dave, who is also an ambassador for Action Mental Health, said that it is “humbling” to be able to use his influence to be a champion for positive mental health in Northern Ireland and is delighted to be backing McBlair’s activation to encourage more tradespeople to open up if help is needed.
Dave continued: “I think everybody has issues with their mental health, but many don’t know how to deal with it – it might just be talking to somebody about it or rationalising what it is you’re going through.
“If I can help with that, that’s the biggest win I can get. It’s a real pleasure to be able to bring any positivity to it because it is such an important matter and I do think it’s an area that has been let down, certainly at a political level.
“Whatever I can do to try and help it, I’ll keep doing that for sure.”
Alan Wright, Managing Director at MacBlair, said that he hopes the campaign can help fight the stigma about reaching out when it comes to your mental health.
He said: “‘How’s the Head?’ is about helping to make wellbeing part of the everyday conversation and creating a culture where people feel comfortable speaking openly when they need support.
“It is encouraging that 70% of tradespeople believe the industry is becoming more open about mental health and wellbeing. The stats show that there is still more to do, but that shift shows real progress.”
Dave said he hopes what people take away from the campaign is that it is ok not to be feeling your best and if you are struggling, there are plenty of people who are there to listen.
“A phone call between jobs, a bit of banter on site or checking in with a mate can completely change the mood of the day. Looking after your mental health does not always have to feel like a massive undertaking.”
If you or someone you know needs additional support, help is available from organisations such as Action Mental Health or mindingyourhead.info, where you can find information, advice and support around mental health and wellbeing.
For more information and figures from the MacBlair ‘How’s the Head?’ campaign, see here
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