Suicide prevention in construction

Building better mental health

Construction workers are four times more likely to die by suicide.

Despite the concerning statistics, there remains a widespread gap in industry-wide mental health and suicide prevention awareness. Behind the banter on site, lives are at risk.

To help address this, we’re delivering free suicide prevention training in partnership with Barratt Homes North Scotland, funded by the CITB Industry Impact Fund. Training is offered for organisations and for individuals to book on to.

Book our free training

Contact our team at ciif.training@samh.org.uk.

Find out more about the courses we offer below.

 

By the industry, for the industry

Grounded in lived experiences of people who work in the industry, our new half-day training has been designed to reflect the day-to-day challenges workers experience.

We aim to build suicide awareness to drive a meaningful cultural shift, where mental health is prioritised, support is proactive, and lives are saved.

Suicide prevention in construction training

This course explores the prevalence of suicide within Scotland and the construction industry, highlighting the associated stigma and its impact on individuals and workplaces. It provides the skills and confidence to recognise warning signs and offers practical guidance to help participants feel empowered to initiate supportive conversations.

Designed for everyone in the industry – from site operatives to senior leaders, available virtually through Microsoft Teams or at your preferred location in-person:

  • Our virtual interactive workshop is suitable for 6-12 participants over 2.5 hours
  • In the classroom, training can be delivered for 6 to 16 participants over 3.5 hours

Both formats include the same content, delivered through interactive group discussions and activities. All participants receive access to a comprehensive follow-up resource to support their ongoing learning.

We know that creating lasting change within construction requires more than just raising awareness; it requires action. That’s why we're delivering both industry-specific suicide prevention training and ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training). By becoming ASIST-trained, organisations can establish dedicated points of contact on-site who are equipped to recognise when someone may be experiencing suicidal thoughts and provide direct, practical support. Our goal is to create a long-lasting impact, beyond awareness and ensure every workplace in the construction industry has the skills and confidence to step in early, offer life-saving help, and foster a culture of care and safety.

ASIST

Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training is a two-day interactive workshop in suicide first aid. ASIST teaches participants to recognise when someone may be having thoughts of suicide and work with them to create a plan that will support their immediate safety. Designed and accredited by Livingworks. It's available:

  • In the classroom for 8 to 24 participants, 9 to 5pm over 2 days