National framework provider Pagabo's charitable arm – the Pagabo Foundation – has announced the launch of the Feelgood Games to encourage action as part of its commitment to supporting improved mental health within the construction industry.

The fitness initiative aims to get the construction industry moving and highlight the value of exercise in maintaining better mental health.

The foundation is calling for volunteers to sign up, whether that be by spreading the message or by enrolling a team to take on an obstacle course challenge set to take place alongside The UK's Real Estate Investment & Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) in May.

Jason Stapley, managing director at Pagabo and lead for the Pagabo Foundation, said: "We're delighted to fire the starting pistol to mark the beginning of the Feelgood Games. Building mental health awareness is The Pagabo Foundation's key message and this latest initiative will continue to increase our impact.

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"We realise that while not everyone enjoys doing the same kind of exercise, the benefits that come from any activity is worth encouraging. The team building challenge we have planned during UKREiiF is an ideal opportunity for people across the industry to get involved and loosen up for a vitally important cause.

"It takes bravery to speak up but we're hoping to engage with even more business leaders who have a platform to lead by example and involve staff in their journey through the games. As well as the final event taking place in Leeds, we're urging companies to document their favourite ways to get active and share internally and externally."

With the most recent construction industry research carried out by the CIOB finding that 26 per cent of professionals thought about taking their own lives in 2019* the Pagabo Foundation is underpinned by the aim to put every construction employee through mental health first aid training so that it will become easier to spot and help those struggling at work.

Christine Hartigan, senior associate at SPACE & PLACE (S&P) and Pagabo Foundation trustee, said: "Having been a Pagabo Foundation trustee since 2020, it's very exciting to now have the opportunity to properly bring people together following the restrictions we have all encountered throughout the pandemic.

"The Games have been developed by our team of passionate and caring mental health advocates, but it's the wider support and engagement from across the construction industry that will help us drive forward awareness, profile and signposting of the issue."

For more information about the Feelgood Games or to sign up, visit feelgoodgames.org.uk/.