A construction company held its fourth annual event to raise awareness of mental health and neurodiversity amongst its colleagues.

Orbit Homes' ‘Butty and Brew’ event at the Felix Park development in Soham included an interactive session with health and safety consultants R G Wilbrey as well as talks on neurodiversity.

The ‘Butty and Brew’ event gave colleagues the chance to talk openly about their mental wellbeing.

Attendees were also shown how to access emergency mental health services should they, or colleagues ever need support, and given tips to manage their day-to-day wellbeing in the workplace.

Ray Winney, regional managing director for Orbit Homes in the East, said: “Our annual ‘Butty and Brew’ sessions are an important part of our ongoing commitment to creating and maintaining safe environments for our colleagues, where they feel comfortable talking about their mental health and wellbeing.

“Given the significant stigma surrounding mental health within the construction industry we hope that by hosting these events we are encouraging everyone to seek the help they need if they are struggling, and not to suffer in silence.”

Tom Gooding, an Orbit Homes colleague who attended on the day, said: “This is our fourth year hosting a mental health and neurodiversity awareness event in this region.

“It was great to see new faces from across our different construction teams interested and participating in this type of event.

“The sessions helped show how we can all work together to look out for not just our own, but also each other’s wellbeing on our sites.”

Chris Duncombe, health and safety trainer for R G Wilbrey, added: “We are delighted to have partnered with Orbit Homes for this year’s ‘Butty and Brew’ events, which help reinforce how managing mental health and wellbeing in construction is just as important as occupational health.

“These events are a valuable opportunity for colleagues to share their own experiences, learn effective ways to manage their wellbeing, and are crucial in breaking down the stigma surrounding seeking support.”