Steve Whittle, founder of Tough To Talk, along with Tracy Knapp, Occupational Health Lead at Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV), and Phil Harris, Head of Occupational Health at BBV, have been honored with the prestigious HS2 Occupational Health and Wellbeing Team Award 2024 for their outstanding contribution to workplace mental health. This recognition, specifically the Safe at Heart Improvement Award, celebrates their groundbreaking campaign to transform perceptions and support for men's mental health at BBV.
Breaking Barriers with Tough To Talk
The collaborative campaign between Tough To Talk and BBV tackled a pressing issue head-on: the barriers preventing men from seeking support for their mental health. Through bold, focused action, this partnership raised awareness and delivered measurable, life-saving results.
At the heart of the campaign were 50 Tough Talk sessions, carefully designed to create safe and honest spaces for men to discuss mental health. These sessions transcended traditional workplace barriers, opening dialogues across all levels of the organisation, from leadership to on-the-ground teams.
To further empower the workforce, the initiative included three suicide intervention training days, equipping participants with vital crisis response skills.
The campaign’s impact is undeniable:
Live stream - An internal live broadcast to the business highlighting the issues facing men with solutions and what BBV are doing to tackle them.
Recorded content between Tough To Talk and BBV. A meaningful, solution-driven conversation between Steve and Phil about the issues men face, the construction industry and how men working for BBV can find help. This video is available on their internet to all teams.
12 men raised concerns about vulnerable colleagues, enabling timely interventions.
6 men in crisis sought immediate support, including 3 men experiencing thoughts of suicide, who were guided to life-saving care.
A core group of 60 trained Tough Talkers emerged, becoming advocates for change within BBV, tasked with influencing workplace culture and fostering open discussions about mental health.
With an overwhelmingly positive feedback score of 4.8 out of 5, this initiative resonated deeply with participants, demonstrating the power of meaningful, candid conversations.
The Power of Partnerships in Driving Change
Tough To Talk’s mission is rooted in collaboration. Breaking down barriers for men starts with reaching them where they are, and partnerships with industries such as construction, manufacturing, sports, and farming are essential to this mission. Similarly, charities and organisations that support vulnerable men also play a key role. Campaigns succeed with a mutual commitment to tackling challenging issues with boldness and compassion.
BBV is a leading example of what’s possible when organisations take a stand. By working hand-in-hand with Tough To Talk, they have drawn a line in the sand, declaring a firm commitment to supporting men in their workforce. This partnership has been about more than just awareness; it has demonstrated the impact of shared goals and expertise. Phil, Tracy, and their team at BBV have shown that when leaders come together with a clear purpose, the results can be life-changing.
This recognition becomes even more significant when you consider the alarming reality that most male suicides each day come from the construction industry. BBV is proving that these devastating statistics can no longer be met with silence. They are at the forefront of a movement to lead the fight against this crisis, creating a safer, more supportive environment for men at every level of their organization.
A Legacy of Change
The award-winning campaign was not a one-time initiative but a foundation for lasting improvement. BBV and Tough To Talk have committed to expanding their efforts, with future plans including:
E-learning initiatives provide accessible and tailored digital content for mental health awareness, suicide prevention, gambling, addiction, loneliness and much more.
Extended Tough Talk sessions, reaching even more teams across the organisation, including the main factors men go through, such as identity, financial worries, family issues, etc.
The first of its kind is the Tough Talk app. See live ROI from the training of our tough talkers, who will record difficult interactions, suicide interventions, and how they have influenced their spaces.
Ongoing updates to mental health support systems, ensuring they resonate with men and break down stigmas effectively.
This momentum represents the potential for widespread workplace transformation. Organisations can reduce stigma, prevent crises, and improve overall well-being by creating environments where men feel supported, valued, and unafraid to speak out.
Recognition of Collaboration and Dedication
The HS2 Occupational Health and Wellbeing Team Award 2024 spotlights remarkable leadership and collaboration in workplace health. Steve Whittle, Tracy Knapp, and Phil Harris have shown how belief in a shared mission and courageous action can create profound change. This recognition celebrates their work and calls on other organisations to step forward and address mental health challenges with the same urgency and dedication.
Driving Collective Change
Tough To Talk and BBV's campaign is a testament to the power of partnerships. By taking bold, focused actions, they have reshaped the conversation around men's mental health in the workplace. Initiatives like these save lives, build trust, and drive organizational success through improved engagement, loyalty, and performance.
If your organisation is ready to advocate for mental health, consider partnering with Tough To Talk. Together, we can build a future where men feel empowered to speak out and where stigma is replaced with support and understanding.
This award is not just an accolade but a powerful reminder that meaningful change is possible when we work together for a shared cause. Congratulations to Steve, Tracy, Phil, and the teams at BBV and Tough To Talk. Your work inspires and drives us all to do more for mental health.
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