Last month we kickstarted 2021 by launching our new Wellbeing Committee. Its aim is to help people to keep motivated and aware of their health as well as to learn new skills for making life decisions to aid their wellbeing and that of others. 

Our first DG Holistic initiative is our new online engagement and wellness events programme, running concurrently alongside the UK and IRE lockdowns.

On Monday 15^th February we held a Mental Health Awareness Webinar, hosted by Derek Murphy, Head of Health, Safety and Environment and special guests Rory O’Connor, social media star and Construction Industry Federation’s Safety Ambassador, and Sinéad Whelan, Charity Ambassador for the Lighthouse Club, construction industry charity.

Rory spoke openly about his mental health struggles and how talking to someone changed his life. Watching his amusing online videos and live comedy shows, you would never realise that he has suffered. Rory was able to share with us some of the darker times, bringing mental health to the fore. He reinforced the message to all our people that “it is okay not to be okay”.

“Rory’s Stories” took a whole new meaning after listening to his honesty and openness of the issues he was challenged with surrounding mental health and how he was helped deal with it. It is very comforting to see that Designer Group are supporting, educating and encouraging us to discuss and learn more about mental health should we, a family member, friend or colleague require help.

Brendan Begley

The Lighthouse Club is the only charity that provides physical, mental and financial wellbeing support exclusively to construction workers and their families and we thank Sinead for supporting us and providing information, advice and guidance.

The webinar was a huge success, and we are looking forward to the next one!