FridayOL

Two former Australian rugby stars are making waves, not on the field, but in the building industry. After hanging up their boots, Ben and Tom founded 'BuildStrong,' a construction firm with a unique and powerful mission: to improve mental health awareness and support within the notoriously tough construction sector.

The construction industry faces a silent crisis. High-pressure deadlines, physically demanding work, and often isolated environments contribute to elevated rates of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and even suicide. BuildStrong is directly addressing this issue by integrating mental health initiatives into their company culture and actively promoting well-being among their team and subcontractors.

“We saw firsthand the pressures athletes face, and we realised the construction industry shares many of the same challenges – long hours, intense competition, and a ‘tough it out’ mentality,” explains Ben, a former prop forward. “We wanted to create a company where people felt comfortable talking about their struggles and accessing support without stigma.”

More Than Just Bricks and Mortar: A Culture of Wellbeing

BuildStrong's approach goes beyond simply offering Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). They've implemented a range of proactive measures:

• Regular Mental Health Check-ins: Team members participate in regular, informal check-ins facilitated by trained mental health professionals.
• Mental Health First Aid Training: A significant portion of the workforce has received Mental Health First Aid training, equipping them to identify and support colleagues in distress.
• Open Communication & Leadership Support: BuildStrong fosters a culture of open communication where employees feel safe to voice concerns without fear of judgement. Leadership actively promotes mental wellbeing and models healthy behaviours.
• Partnerships with Mental Health Organisations: They collaborate with leading mental health organisations to provide resources, workshops, and access to specialist support.

A Year of Growth and Impact

Just a year after launching, BuildStrong has already secured several significant contracts and built a reputation for quality workmanship and its commitment to mental health. The company's innovative approach has garnered attention from industry leaders and mental health advocates alike.

“The response has been incredible,” says Tom, a former fly-half. “We’re proving that you can build a successful business while prioritising the wellbeing of your people. We hope our model inspires other companies in the construction industry to take action and create a more supportive and mentally healthy workplace.”

BuildStrong’s story is a powerful reminder that mental health is everyone’s business. By combining skilled building work with a bold mental health message, Ben and Tom are not just reshaping the construction scene – they're building a better future for all involved. Their initiative demonstrates that a supportive and inclusive workplace isn't just a nice-to-have, it's a crucial ingredient for success. The company is actively seeking partnerships and opportunities to expand its reach and impact across Australia.

Want to learn more about BuildStrong and their mission? Visit their website at [Insert Website Here] and follow them on social media [Insert Social Media Links Here].