In the second in a series from Mates in Mind, Sam Downie, managing director, explores what effective wellbeing support looks like in practice for construction, where businesses often fall short, and how the industry can create lasting change. Wellbeing policy must match what’s happening on site to be effective. Image: Beritk, Dreamstime The construction sector is full of organisations that care deeply about the wellbeing of their people.

When thinking of sustainability, there is the tendency to think of environmental commitments – for instance, carbon neutrality targets, renewable energy, or responsible supply chains. However, these only tell part of the story. True sustainability is not only about protecting the planet, but also about organisations thriving and remaining resilient; which requires protecting the wellbeing of their people.

Introduction – being safe vs feeling safe It is well recognised and understood that companies are required to safeguard their employees from physical safety risks in the workplace, whether working at height, gas leaks or fire hazards. This gives workers a sense of being safe in their place of work.