Jones Bros is highly commended for mental health and wellbeing commitments14th Jun 2024

Jones Bros Civil Engineering UK’s steadfast commitment to mental health and wellbeing has been recognised by Mates in Mind (MiM).

Leading mental health charity MiM raises awareness and facilities conversations around wellbeing in the workplace, with the civil engineering contractor using its services since 2019.

As part of its ongoing efforts to create a supportive work environment, Jones Bros undertook an assessment, which saw the company secure a best possible ‘sustainable’ ranking.

This indicates a consistent approach to how the mental health of people is being managed, reflecting a more mature and embedded approach that is clearly communicated and reported to necessary stakeholders.

Subsequently, the Ruthin-headquartered firm was highly recommended in the Best Workplace Mental Health Team Award by MiM as part of men’s health week.

Jones Bros HSE assistant Casey Parry said: “As a company, we recognise the critical importance of mental health, and our commitment to addressing it through initiatives like Mates in Mind reflects this priority.

“We understand that a healthy workforce is not just about physical health but also encompasses mental and emotional wellbeing.

“By taking that seriously, we aim to foster a safe and supportive environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their issues and seeking help when needed.

“Our partnership with Mates in Mind underscores our dedication to creating a culture of openness and help. This initiative helps us provide the necessary resources and training to our staff, ensuring they have the tools to maintain their mental health and support their colleagues.

“Ultimately, our goal is to ensure that every employee knows they are valued and that their wellbeing is a top priority.”

As part of an eagerness to provide the best support for staff, Jones Bros makes sure that it is:

• Providing mental health first aiders for employees to seek support and guidance, with the frequency of check ins and feedback sessions increasing.
• Raising awareness by sharing informative content and resources, including during key times of the year such as men’s health week.
• Staging workshops and training sessions aimed at equipping staff with the tools to manage stress and maintain wellbeing.
• Offering ‘stand down’ sessions at sites, which give dedicated time slots to employees to discuss mental health awareness events and share thoughts and experiences.

Casey continued: “Whilst we provide plenty of advice and guidance, we know that improvements can be made, and they are something we are working on.

“We are exploring new ways to help our employees, such as implementing anonymous feedback systems and enhanced online resources.

“Our ongoing commitment is to create a workplace where mental health is continuously supported, and every employee feels empowered to seek help whenever they need it.”

Established in the 1950s, Jones Bros owns one of the largest plant fleets in the UK and employs approximately 500 people.

The company is currently working on contracts in various sectors including highways, flood and marine defence, waste management and renewable energy around the UK.

The company runs an award-winning apprenticeship scheme, which has produced nearly 40 per cent of its current workforce, with many of its senior managers having started out as apprentices or in a trainee role. It has recruited more than 100 apprentices during the past three years.