Research by a Lancaster University student is aiming to reduce suicide rates among workers in the construction industry.
With construction among the industries with statistically one of the highest suicide rates, research by a Lancaster University postgraduate student is being carried out into how to prevent suicides in the sector in the UK.
Phoebe Savill, a trainee clinical psychologist and postgraduate researcher at Lancaster University, is researching experiences of suicidal thoughts among UK workers.
Phoebe is looking to those who have had suicidal thoughts 12 months or more ago, who were working in the construction industry at the time, to give up an hour of their time to talk with her as part of her research.
She is researching those who did not go on to attempt to take their own life, so she can understand what support has been helpful at reducing the number of suicides. Similar research in Australia has resulted in a reduction in suicides in the construction industry.
Phoebe said: “I hope this research will add to understanding why these rates in the UK construction industry are so high, and what support and changes within the industry could be helpful.”
One company who have already taken part in the research is Evolution, based in Blackpool.
JJ Fitzgerald, Managing Director, said: “The construction industry knows only too well, and all too often, the effect suicide has right across the community.
“We want to show our support and create an environment and a society where people feel safe to talk and seek help.
“By taking part in this research, we’re helping to shine a light on an issue that is too often kept in the dark, and we’re contributing to real, lasting change.
“We’re aiming to send a message that Evolution stands united in support of our colleagues, families and friends across the construction industry, in all workplaces, and throughout the wider community.”
Recent research from the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), titled Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025, found that 28 per cent of respondents had experienced suicidal thoughts in the past year.
Anyone in the construction industry who wants to find out more about taking part in Phoebe’s research is asked to contact her at p.savill@lancaster.ac.uk
Lancashire Police reveal results of Safer Streets Summer campaign
United Utilities’ team raise £10,000 for Lancaster hospice
LISTEN: 'Wave of Light' in Lancaster to support families in Baby Loss Awareness Week
Lancaster park show Wizard of Oz up for Lancashire Tourism Award
New India branch campus on the horizon for Lancaster University
Heysham breast cancer survivor tells her story during awareness month
Banking hub and new cafe set to open in Morecambe shopping centre
875-year-old Lancaster Castle tower to host live music gigs for first time
Morecambe RNLI shop and boathouse manager receives excellence award
Resurfacing work and road closure under way at Shrimp Roundabout in Morecambe
Morecambe crew give birthday surprise to 100-year-old who served as firefighter in Second World War
Lancaster City Museum awarded £40,000 improvement grant
Crews tackle diesel tanks fire near Lancaster
Morecambe crime series The Bay up for Best Drama at North West television awards
LISTEN: How men's mental health group opening in Morecambe is saving lives
Morecambe singer writes new single for pop legend Marti Pellow
‘Dynamic’ local culture champions appointed to lead Lancaster District Arts Partnership
Lancaster choirs want your vote in Lancashire finals
Crews tackle derelict property fire in Lancaster
Third generation Morecambe chimney sweep proud to continue family legacy
