Mental Health in Construction: Craig Talks with Nicola Campbell from Lighthouse Charity About Pressure, Support, and Saving Lives

In this deeply important episode of The Know Your Numbers Podcast, Craig Alexander Rattray sits down with Nicola Campbell, Lead Partnership Manager at The Lighthouse Charity, to talk about mental health in the construction sector, business pressures, and the support that’s available to those who build the world around us.

Nicola shares the heartbreaking reality that the construction industry loses two workers every working day to suicide, and explains how Lighthouse Charity provides free, 24/7 support to anyone in the industry – from site workers and subcontractors to business owners, directors, and their families.

This conversation is about more than business – it’s about people. It's a reminder that your mental health matters as much as your financial health, and there is help available when things feel heavy.

 

  Key Topics Discussed:

✅ The silent pressures that business owners in construction face every day
✅ How Lighthouse Charity is saving lives through proactive, practical support
✅ Why reaching out for help isn’t a weakness – it’s a responsibility
✅ The hidden struggles behind the scenes of running a business
✅ The ripple effect of stress on teams, families, and entire communities
✅ How to access the wide range of support Lighthouse offers

  Key Takeaways:

✅ Suicide is preventable – but we have to talk about it, and offer real support
✅ Business owners often carry silent burdens – financial, emotional, and personal
✅ It’s not selfish to take care of yourself – it’s essential
✅ Even just one phone call to Lighthouse can be life-changing
✅ Mental wellbeing should be treated with the same urgency as any business risk

  Memorable Quotes (Direct from Nicola and Craig):

📢 “We do lose two construction workers every working day to suicide.” – Nicola Campbell
📢 “Every time someone phones, we have an opportunity to save a life and keep a family together.” – Nicola Campbell
📢 “We have to assess ourselves – we have to look after ourselves before we can go forward.” – Nicola Campbell
📢 “It just becomes all-encompassing… it’s what you think about last thing at night and first thing in the morning.” – Craig Alexander Rattray
📢 “If you’re affected – or know someone who is – please, please get in touch.” – Craig Alexander Rattray

  Timestamps:

01:32 Nicola's Journey from Criminology to Charity Work

04:15 Lighthouse Charity: Mission and Support

06:01 Challenges in the Construction Industry

08:40 Mental Wellbeing and Support in Construction

12:14 How Lighthouse Charity Makes a Difference

15:03 Promoting Lighthouse Charity and Its Resources

23:46 Encouragement and Final Thoughts

25:46 Conclusion and Contact Information

 

 

Resources Mentioned:

📌 The Lighthouse Charity – 24/7 wellbeing and crisis support for construction workers and business owners
📌 Lighthouse Support App – Free app providing easy access to mental health, financial and wellbeing support
📌 Know Your Numbers Website – Learn how Craig helps business owners take control of their finances and reduce stress