COVID-19 lockdowns have shut down the ACT building and construction industry prompting Master Builders ACT (MBA) and OzHelp to partner to provide additional online health and wellbeing support to members.
OzHelp CEO, Darren Black commented, “We know from our work across Australia that lockdown can lead to feelings of frustration, uncertainty, and concern. In the ACT, this is the first time the building and construction industry have not been considered essential workers.”
“Our Wellbeing Support Workers have been conducting telephone check-ins with building and construction workers in the ACT. We are hearing that stress levels are rising, many workers have been stood down and are particularly concerned about the ongoing uncertainty, financial stress, and worries about work back logs and missed deadlines.”
OzHelp is offering its online Wellbeing Empowerment Program for free to all MBA members. This program helps participants understand the signs of depression, anxiety, and suicide risk, and provides important strategies to help manage mental health and wellbeing.
“This is a male-dominated industry, and the research shows there is a much higher risk of mental ill-health and suicide. It’s really important that we provide additional support at this time.”
Michael Hopkins, CEO Master Builders ACT mentioned, “Feedback from our members indicates that poor mental health, stress and anxiety will be one of the biggest consequences of the construction industry shut down. The MBA’s partnership with OzHelp will allow workers and business owners to access practical information to help them get through this difficult time.”
The Wellbeing Empowerment Program sessions will be offered on the 8th and 15th of September, 9.30 am to 11.30 am AEST. All participants will receive a confidential digital health check, as well as access to ongoing support and counselling.
OzHelp is continuing to provide FREE counselling and support to all ACT Building and Construction Workers, and their families during this lockdown. We thank the ACT Government for their ongoing support to enable us to provide this service.
To access support call, 1300 694 357 (9 am- 5 pm, Mon – Fri, AEST). For 24/7 crisis support, reach out to, Lifeline 13 11 14, Mensline 1300 78 99 78 or call Beyond Blue 1300 224 636.