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Yorkshire business raises mental health awareness

A Yorkshire construction services business is backing a campaign to raise awareness of mental health issues within the industry.

South Elmsall-based Harris is supporting the ‘Mindful Employer’ initiative which is being run by Leeds Citizens – an alliance of civil society organisations working together for the common good of Leeds. The firm has signed up to the ‘Charter for Employers who are Positive about Mental Health.’

To mark the occasion, representatives from Harris met with members of Leeds Citizens this month, who were given a tour of one of the firm’s current projects at 7 Park Row in Leeds. Harris is responsible for the £7 million refurbishment of the former regional head office of Lloyd’s Bank to create nine storyes of Grade A office space.

Danny Mulqueen, Managing Director at Harris, said: “Trade magazine Construction News has recently highlighted the issue of mental health among construction professionals and it is widely recognised that employers can play a crucial role in supporting mental health in the workplace. By supporting the Charter we can hopefully play our part, by supporting and helping anyone experiencing issues to get the right support.


“After years of neglect, mental health is now being recognised by central government as a major area for concern when promoting a safe and healthy workforce. We believe that it’s only by fully recognising this problem, that we can put into place the measures required to both safeguard our team, and improve our productivity.”

Liz Monaghan, Leader from Leeds Citizens said: “I know from personal experience how support from an employer can make a huge difference when struggling with a mental health problem. We are delighted that Harris is committing to supporting the mental health of their employees through signing the Mindful Employer Charter and look forward to continuing the conversation with them about how they can play a leading role on this issue in the construction sector.”

Harris is a privately owned construction services business that provides new-build, refurbishment and specialist interior fit-out property solutions in the industrial, commercial and retail sectors throughout the UK. The company has a turnover in excess of £50m and over 60 employees. It was also recently named the region’s second fastest growing business in the prestigious Yorkshire Fastest 50 league table.

Leeds Citizens is a registered charity that has built community relationships and run campaigns on several local issues and citywide challenges including mental health. It has raised over £65,000 for community causes to date.