I, like many others, have been affected by poor mental health. Loss of confidence, questioning everything you do, constant thoughts running round your head making it impossible to sleep, becoming muted and miserable,  uncontrollable tears, panic attacks, constantly feeling negative towards yourself......it creeps up on you and before you know it dragging yourself out of bed or off the sofa seem impossible. They become a safe zone and you do not want to leave. 

I always thought it was sport that played a big part of my life; but now I realise even more so its the common interest shared with friends and opponents during these events. Conversations, banter and meeting new people was all taken away during the Covid lockdown and this hit me hard. 

I will be forever indebted to my Wife, son, family, friends, work colleagues and all involved at Avonvale rugby club for their support during this time. 

Civils & Lintels have chosen to support Mates in Mind to not only help raise much needed funds, but to help raise awareness and work to remove the stigma of poor mental health in the construction sector. We are already implementing changes internally and holding training to be more aware of the warning signs, and learn the skills of how to best support someone who is having a difficult time. We have committed to raise at least £100 per colleague by the end of 2022, so a minimum target of £35,000! You'll find out here what our colleagues are doing to smash this challenge please help us reach that target by donating. Thank you for your support.