Over 40 representatives from construction and civil engineering businesses from across the North East gathered for a ‘Breakfast and Networking’ event to learn more about the work of the Lighthouse Charity and to network with industry peers. The collaborative CECA and Lighthouse Charity event was the first of its kind in the North East.
Held at the offices of the Civil Engineering Contractors Association North East (CECA North East) members were updated on the charity’s services, the importance of positive wellbeing and exploring how employers can ensure support is available to those who need it.
Rory Doyle, Partnership Manager for the Lighthouse Charity North East region delivered a full service presentation highlighting the vital support it provides both nationally and regionally to the North East construction community. The presentation also shared the marked increase in demand for support for the charity’s services compared to the same time period last year, highlighting a workforce with ongoing physical, emotional and financial wellbeing challenges.
Sarah Sidey, chair of the Lighthouse Charity committee in the North East, delivered a passionate and heartfelt message around the importance of reaching out for support early and was able to share her first hand experiences of the challenges within the industry.
“The construction industry is built on looking out for one another. I encourage every business, leader, and individual across the North East to join us in supporting the Lighthouse Charity’s vital work. Whether you attend an event, start a wellbeing conversation, become a company supporter, or simply share awareness of the help available, your involvement could make a life-changing difference. Together we can make a lasting difference.“
CECA North East is one of eight regional branches of the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA), representing around 80% of civil engineering activity across the region. Its members range from small and medium-sized businesses to some of the largest UK and international firms, all playing a vital role in delivering, maintaining and upgrading the nation’s infrastructure.
Stuart Miller, director of CECA North East, said: “We were pleased to host the breakfast event and to hear more about the charity and its vital services, many of which will undoubtedly be useful for our members. The civil engineering sector continues to place an increasing focus on supporting the wellbeing of its workforce and events such as this help raise awareness of the excellent support that is available. We hope everyone who attended found the session informative and valuable.”
The event has prompted incredible feedback and engagement from those who attended, with companies and individuals keen to collaborate with Lighthouse both as company supporters and in voluntary roles.
A big thank you goes to the Regen Group, Sunderland who very kindly sponsored the supply of breakfast for the event.
Feeling inspired? If you’d like to support the construction community in the North East and are interested in learning more, please contact Rory Doyle, Partnership Manager for the Lighthouse North East Region.
Rory.doyle@lighthousecharity.org
