Turning Commitment into Everyday Action
About GRK Civils
Working in the construction industry, the GRK recognises the importance of supporting mental health in a sector where people can often feel under pressure to simply "get on with it". GRK Civils is committed to creating a workplace where looking after mental health is part of everyday working life, rather than something only discussed when problems arise.
The Challenge
Working within a traditionally male-dominated industry, GRK Civils recognised that demonstrating a genuine commitment to mental health required more than simply making support available. The organisation wanted to challenge stigma, encourage open conversations and make it clear that colleague wellbeing was a priority. It also recognised the importance of helping managers and colleagues feel confident recognising when someone might be struggling and knowing how to respond.
Approach in action
GRK Civils has demonstrated its commitment to mental health by making wellbeing a visible and ongoing priority rather than something only discussed during awareness campaigns. Recognising that changing workplace culture takes time, theorganisation encourages regular conversations about mental health across its sites, helping to break down stigma and make wellbeing part of everyday working life.
Leaders reinforce this commitment by creating opportunities for honest conversations and demonstrating through their actions that colleague wellbeing matters.
This commitment is reinforced throughout the year through practical initiatives that keep mental health visible. The organisation has invested in Mental Health First Aider training to strengthen the support available across the business, while Wellbeing Wednesdays, social activities and awareness campaigns, including Men's Health Month, provide regular opportunities for colleagues to focus on their wellbeing. Company stand-downs and toolbox talks create dedicated opportunities to discuss mental health, helping ensure these conversations become a normal part of working life rather than exceptional events.
GRK Civils also sees continuous learning as part of its commitment to supporting colleague wellbeing. Through its membership of the Leeds Mindful Employer Network, the organisation continues to access practical resources, learn from other employers and strengthen its approach to mental health at work.
Impact and learning
GRK Civils believes that demonstrating a commitment to mental health is about what colleagues experience every day. By making mental health visible through regular conversations, practical wellbeing initiatives and ongoing investment in support, the organisation is reinforcing that colleague wellbeing is a genuine business priority rather than a one-off campaign. The organisation continues to build on this approach, recognising that creating a mentally healthy workplace requires consistent action over time.
Key takeaway for other employers
Demonstrating a commitment to mental health can be about what people experience every day. Making mental health part of everyday working life through visible leadership, regular conversations and ongoing investment in practical support can help create a culture where colleagues know their wellbeing matters and feel confident accessing support when they need it.