People working in the trades often face unique challenges when it comes to their health and safety. The work can be demanding and even dangerous, and there’s often a risk of injury. In some cases, a get-it-done workplace culture might discourage people from seeking help. But the workplace culture in the trades can also be a great source of strength: site crews are close, and they’re often willing to help each other out.

The Tailgate Toolkit is a program that helps people working in construction find and access resources and supports for substance use, mental health, and pain management. It was put together by construction industry leaders from across the province and is led by the Vancouver Island Construction Association, with support from the BC government. The program has four key parts:

• Toolbox Talks: A member of the Tailgate Toolkit team will come to your worksite for a 30-to-45-minute conversation about substance use and mental health supports, including harm reduction tools.
• Supervisor Training: Supervisors, managers, site leaders, safety workers or company owners can take a four-day, Gold Seal and CPD-accredited course through the Tailgate Toolkit on how to talk about substance use and mental health with their teams.
• Hammer Time: An anonymous online support group for construction workers meets on Thursdays to talk about substance use. It’s not a 12-step program, it’s not religious, and you don’t have to be sober to participate.
• Resource listings: Tailgate Toolkit has guides to resources available on Vancouver Island, in Vancouver and the Fraser Valley, in the Southern Interior and in Northern BC.

Visit the Tailgate Toolkit website to access these resources or get in touch with the program and learn more about how the Tailgate Toolkit can support your team. Through funding from the BC government, each competent of the Tailgate Toolkit is free to access.

It can be hard to talk about mental health and substance use, especially at work, but the Tailgate Toolkit can help you find the right tools for the job.

How can I help?

If someone you know or care about is struggling, whether at work or in your personal life, take time to check in with them. Remember that open, non-judgmental conversations help people talk honestly about the challenges they face. Listen actively and try not to provide advice or opinions until they’re asked for. Remind people that support is available.

If someone is looking for support or treatment for a mental health or substance use problem, HelpStartsHere can be a great place to start searching. The Tailgate Toolkit resource guides also highlight what supports are available in your region. You can also call 8-1-1 or visit a primary care provider through a clinic or virtual doctor’s appointment.