If you would like some support with your mental health

Just as anyone can catch flu, anyone can experience a mental health problem.

Dr Phil Cooper of charity State of Mind Sport has written a guest blog for us on ways to improve your mental fitness.

Friendly VGC colleagues
Don’t suffer alone: ask a colleague for support any time you need it

Do not suffer alone: there are lots of sources of help and support.

  1. Part of the VGC employee benefit scheme is the freephone Construction Worker Helpline: 8am – 8pm on 0808 801 0372
  2. Speak to your line manager or workplace mental health champion. They can support with work challenges and direct you to a mental health first aider.
  3. We have eleven trained mental health first aiders as well as 30 on-site mental health champions. They can signpost you to places where you can find specific support. Fill in the form at the bottom of this page, and one of them will be in touch with you.
  4. Samaritans 24-hour free helpline: phone or text free 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org
  5. The construction industry helpline, in partnership with Considerate Constructors Scheme, is there to support construction workers with stress, depression and anxiety issues. 0845 605 1956 or 0345 605 1956
  6. Contact your GP.

Other useful resources

  • Mind – 0300 123 3393
  • Mental Health Foundation has a range of information and resources
  • SaneLine – 0300 304 7000 – provides out of hours mental health and emotional support
  • Anxiety UK – 08444 775 774 – is a charity run by people with lived experience of anxiety
  • No Panic – 0844 967 4848 – is a charity which specialises in self-help based recovery resources
  • Depression UK is a national self-help organisation to support people affected by depression

For specific issues:

Wellbeing support form

Fill in this form if you would like a VGC mental health first aider to contact you. Everything will be strictly confidential.
  • (You don't have to give any information here if you don't want to.)