As evening fell over the construction site, the sounds of clanging tools gradually faded, replaced by an eerie silence that often cloaks the lives of tradespeople in the UK. Recent statistics reveal that two construction workers take their own lives every day—a stark and unsettling reality in an industry often portrayed as rugged and resilient.

FixFest: A Festival for Tradies Amidst Distressing Mental Health Statistics

But hope is rising like a phoenix from these grim statistics. On August 30, the first-ever music festival aimed squarely at those in the building trade—FixFest—will be held at the South of England Showground in Ardingly, West Sussex, seeking to create a space where camaraderie and mental wellbeing can flourish. Spearheaded by Fix Radio, a dedicated UK station for tradespeople, this unique festival not only aims to entertain but also to tackle a growing trade skills gap and raise awareness around mental health.

A Day of Music, Community, and Support

Boasting a lineup that includes popular acts like Scouting for Girls and Dizzie Rascal, FixFest promises an all-day experience enveloped in the warmth of community spirit. According to Louis Timpany, the founder of Fix Radio, “This festival will be a celebration, uniting builders and tradespeople who often feel isolated in their daily work. Our goal is to create an atmosphere where they can not only enjoy live music but also feel supported and valued.”

• Live performances by notable artists
• Networking opportunities for tradespeople
• A dedicated mental health section—The Power House
• Workshops to inspire the next generation of tradespeople

The Need for Mental Health Awareness

A crucial component of FixFest is a segment titled The Power House, which will assemble at least ten mental health professionals, peer supporters, and charity experts. Amid a backdrop of harrowing statistics—highlighted by the construction charity Lighthouse, which revealed that construction workers are nearly four times more likely to take their own lives than in other sectors—this initiative is vital. “Mental health in the trades is often sidelined,” noted Dr. Emily Harrington, a psychologist specializing in occupational stress. “Events like FixFest not only break the stigma but also create vital support networks.”

The festival aims to shatter the silence surrounding mental health, giving attendees access to practical wellbeing tips and resources. “It’s about making connections,” Dr. Harrington continued. “When tradespeople come together, they recognize that they are not alone. Community reduces barriers.”

Changing Perceptions of the Trade

Another pillar of FixFest is to change the narrative surrounding trade professions. Timpany points to a cultural bias that equates academic success with self-worth, stating, “In the UK, we have a perception problem—tradespeople are often viewed as having taken a ‘less than’ path. This festival is about elevating those professions.” This sentiment is echoed by many in the industry, with Team GB boxer Lewis Williams affirming, “We need to celebrate the skills and craftsmanship that goes into every job. FixFest is a step in that direction.”

By showcasing the depth and richness of the trade community, FixFest invites young people to consider pursuing careers in skilled labor. With the average age of builders now at 55, the urgency to attract younger generations into the trades has never been more pressing. “We need more tradespeople—fast,” emphasized Timpany. “AI cannot build houses yet, and the demand is only going to increase.”

Creating a Festive Environment for Camaraderie

Attendees can expect a multitude of food options, including classic builders’ tea and hearty fry-ups, creating not just a festival but a communal event where tradespeople can mingle and unwind. “In my heart, I believe FixFest can inspire a sense of community and belonging,” remarked Timpany. “With so many workers feeling isolated, it’s vital that we create a new tradition.”

As teams prepare to erect the festival site, it’s a testament to the collaborative spirit that runs deep within the trades. “We’ve had builders volunteer to construct the festival infrastructure,” noted Timpany. “It’s truly a celebration of the craftsmanship in our community.”

The anticipation is palpable, with tickets selling rapidly. “We have had a big response from tradespeople across the country wanting to show up and be part of something special,” said Timpany. “This is about changing lives for the better, and showcasing what it means to be a tradesperson today.”

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Source: www.dailymail.co.uk