Today, on World Mental Health Day (10th October 2025), façade access installation specialist Integral Cradles and its maintenance partner GIND UK are reinforcing their dedication to supporting employee mental health and wellbeing through a comprehensive programme of initiatives.
The companies are marking this important day of awareness by highlighting the construction industry’s ongoing mental health challenges and the proactive steps both firms are taking to create a supportive workplace environment where employees feel valued, supported, and safe to reach out for help when they need it most.
Taking meaningful action
With construction workers continuing to face disproportionate mental health challenges compared to the general population, Integral Cradles and GIND UK have implemented a wide ranging approach to employee wellbeing that goes beyond awareness to deliver tangible support.
The companies’ initiatives include regular one-to-one meetings with staff, providing dedicated time for open conversations about wellbeing and any challenges employees may be facing. Additionally, management teams have undertaken specialised mental health training courses, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to recognise warning signs and provide appropriate support to team members.
Most recently, both companies launched their groundbreaking ‘Wellbeing Time’ initiative, which provides employees with designated half-day periods beyond their statutory and contractual holiday entitlement. This precious time allows staff to nurture their physical, mental, and emotional health through activities such as exercise, spending quality time with family, or simply taking moments for rest and personal care.
A moral duty to support our people
Kevin Walton, Managing Director of Integral Cradles and GIND UK, spoke about the importance of prioritising mental health in the workplace:
“World Mental Health Day provides an important opportunity to reflect on how we’re supporting our people and reinforces why mental health must remain at the heart of everything we do. We recognise that the construction industry continues to face significant mental health challenges, and we’re committed to being part of the solution through meaningful action rather than just words.”
“Our comprehensive wellbeing programme, from regular one-to-ones and management training to our Wellbeing Time initiative, reflects our belief that our staff are our most important asset. By creating a workplace culture where people feel genuinely supported and able to prioritise their mental health, we’re investing in both their personal happiness and our collective success as a business.”
Creating a supportive workplace culture
As proud corporate supporters of Samaritans, Integral Cradles and GIND UK contribute to the charity’s life-saving work in suicide prevention and emotional support, demonstrating their commitment to mental health both within their organisation and across the wider community.
“We want every member of our team to know that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness,” Kevin added. “By fostering open conversations about mental health and providing practical support through our various initiatives, we’re working to break down the stigma and create an environment where everyone can thrive.”
Supporting resources
Employees experiencing mental health difficulties are encouraged to contact:
- Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7 helpline)
- CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably): 0800 58 58 58
- Mind: 0300 123 3393
For more information on Integral Cradles and GIND UK’s commitment to employee wellbeing, visit www.i-cradles.com or www.gind.uk
