The Scaffolding of Life: Mental Health in the Industry
John Hall – Safety & Access Scaffold Training Manager
“When I think of scaffolding, I see more than steel tubes, boards, and couplers. I see the lives of people who climb those heights every day. I see the stories, the laughter, and yes, the struggles. Scaffolding has been my world for years. It’s a proud trade, but it’s also one that can weigh heavy—on the body, on the mind, and on the soul.
Working in scaffolding means long hours, unpredictable weather, and the ever-present risk of danger. We know how to check every bolt, every joint, every board*. But what about ourselves? What about our mates? The truth is, mental health often takes a backseat in an industry where showing vulnerability isn’t always encouraged.”
The Silent Struggle
“Statistics tell a sobering story. In the UK, construction workers are three times more likely to die by suicide than the national average. Behind that number are scaffolders, labourers, supervisors—people who may feel isolated, overwhelmed, or unsupported. Many of us have witnessed a colleague withdraw, turn to coping mechanisms, or break under the pressure. Some of us have been that person.
It’s not easy to admit you’re struggling. Scaffolding has taught me resilience, teamwork, and the importance of keeping my footing. But I’ve also learned that carrying the weight of silence can be more dangerous than any fall.”
A Shift in Culture
“Thankfully, times are changing. The conversations I hear on site today are different from those a decade ago. There’s more openness, more awareness, and more resources. But it’s not enough. We need to keep building on that foundation, just like we’d build a scaffold—piece by piece, layer by layer.”
Spotting the Signs
“If someone close to you seems quieter than usual, irritable, or withdrawn, don’t ignore it. These are often signs of mental health struggles. Whether it’s stress, anxiety, depression, or another challenge, acknowledging the problem is the first step.
On the flip side, if you’re the one struggling, remember this: you’re not alone. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.”
Where to Turn for Help
- Andys Mans Club: A men’s suicide prevention charity, offering free-to-attend peer-to-peer support groups across the UK
- Mates in Mind: A fantastic organisation working specifically within construction to provide mental health support.
- The Lighthouse Club: Providing financial and emotional support to the construction industry and their families
- Samaritans: Call 116 123, any time, day or night.
- Mind: Offering advice, resources, and someone to talk to.
“Many employers, including those in scaffolding, now offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) with confidential counselling services. If your workplace doesn’t, ask why not. At Safety & Access, many of my colleagues are qualified Mental Health First Aiders following in depth training, if this is something you are interested in either for yourself, or your business get in touch and we can look at arranging a session.”
Building a Stronger Industry Together
“Scaffolding is a team effort, and so is mental health. Let’s check in on each other—not just about deadlines and loads, but about how we’re really doing. Let’s normalise asking for help and offering it without judgment.
The same care we take to secure a structure should be applied to ourselves and our colleagues. After all, what good is a solid scaffold if the people on it are falling apart?”
Final Thoughts
Scaffolding is a proud trade. It builds skylines and shapes cities. But the most important structure we’ll ever build is the one that supports each other. Mental health matters—on the ground, at the top, and everywhere in between.
If you’re reading this and feeling the weight, know this: there’s a network of people ready to help you carry it. And if you’re in a position to offer support, do it today. Together, we can ensure that scaffolding isn’t just about construction—it’s about connection.
* and if you don’t, be sure to book on our training courses!
Visit Safety & Access today, or give us a call on 0115 9794523.
