*Guest content from NESCAFÉ
New data* reveals that half (47%) of construction workers in the UK feel lonely in the workplace.
The findings, conducted by NESCAFÉ as part of the ‘Make Chat Work’ campaign, were announced amidst ongoing concerns about wellbeing in the construction industry – with a report from the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Issues Affecting Men and Boys recommending more stringent mental health provisions should be written into construction contracts.
Further insights from the research revealed that eight out of ten (79%) construction workers agree that having opportunities to talk to colleagues around coffee breaks would make them feel less lonely. In addition, nearly all (99%) of respondents said that getting together for a coffee break is important for team morale and 94% look forward to a coffee break with colleagues.
NESCAFÉ working with FMB to help businesses nurtures their employees’ wellbeing
The ‘Make Chat Work’ campaign by NESCAFÉ aims to help small and medium-sized construction businesses create a culture that nurtures their employees’ wellbeing through encouraging interactions, connections and engagement between workers. As part of the campaign, NESCAFÉ is working closely with the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), to deliver insights and information to help FMB members improve workplace wellbeing.
Nadia Roberts, Brand Manager at NESCAFÉ at Nestlé Professional, said: “Our research shows that coffee breaks at work aren’t just a ‘nice to have’ but are an important part of the day for employees – particularly for those that are experiencing feelings of loneliness. Breaks give workers time that’s been specifically carved out to connect, talk and engage with each other and an opportunity to take time out and switch off from the day-to-day pressures – important for workers in any business, but particularly a sector like construction, and the related trades such as plumbers, carpenters and electricians, which are typically male-dominated.”
Join us for a free wellbeing webinar on 16 March, 4.30pm
To support members, NESCAFÉ and the FMB are hosting a free webinar on Wednesday 16 March at 4.30pm, titled ‘How to create a culture that nurtures employees’ wellbeing’ (register here).
How to create a culture that nurtures employees’ wellbeing, sponsored by NESCAFÉ
It's never been more important time to make sure you are prioritising your own and team's wellbeing. In this webinar the FMB will be discussing all things work-life balance and combatting loneliness in the workplace.
All FMB members are welcome to join and hear the panel of industry professionals discuss all things work-life balance, combatting loneliness in the workplace, how to create a sense of renewed personal equilibrium, and how you can develop a better-balanced life.
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB said: “Mental health is a top priority for the FMB so our work with NESCAFÉ is another great way to highlight workplace wellbeing. Builders face many pressures in their day-to-day lives and it’s great that many FMB members share their own mental health challenges to help others. The FMB has also partnered with The Lighthouse Club as our national charity partner to ensure mental health awareness is front and centre in the construction sector.”
As part of the campaign, NESCAFÉ will be making a donation to The Lighthouse Club charity.
Free downloadable tools for employers to support workplace wellbeing
In addition to the webinar, NESCAFÉ has also created various tools for employers looking to support workplace wellbeing that are free to download. This includes a ‘Make Chat Work’ Guide packed full of insights, knowledge and practical tips on how to make the most of the coffee break in the workplace. There are also printable assets to display in the office including a ‘NESCAFÉ Your Way’ sheet to note how colleagues like to take their hot drinks and ‘Icebreaker’ and ‘Conversation Starter’ suggestions, designed to help ignite chat and interaction with co-workers.
To register for the free webinar click here or for further information on the NESCAFÉ Make Chat Work campaign or to download the free Make Chat Work Guide click here.
*The research was conducted by 3GEM on behalf of NESCAFÉ Make Chat Work and surveyed 350 UK construction workers / tradespeople in SME companies of 5-250 employees, October 2022
