Willmott Dixon commissioned a large-scale mural at the University of Staffordshire’s new Student Village in Stoke-on-Trent to support men’s mental health in the construction industry.

The artwork, created by University of Staffordshire alumnus and local artist Rob Fenton in collaboration with the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity, depicts a lighthouse shining a beacon of hope alongside imagery focused on the quieter, often overlooked forms of support that play a vital role in mental wellbeing.

The mural was unveiled as part of a site-wide Safety Stand Down facilitated by the Lighthouse Charity’s #MakeItVisible team, where the entire workforce and supply chain partners stopped work to focus on men’s mental health. The Lighthouse Charity provides free, confidential 24/7 emotional, physical and financial wellbeing support to the construction community.

The Student Village, due to open this summer on the University’s Stoke-on-Trent campus on Leek Road, is a landmark development delivering 1,000 student rooms. The scheme is being delivered in partnership with Staffordshire Campus Living, a consortium formed by Hochtief PPP Solutions UK and Ireland, Plenary and University of Staffordshire, with Willmott Dixon as construction partner.

Rob Fenton, who graduated from the University with a degree in Graphic Design in 2007, said:

“The artwork creates a visible, public moment for a conversation that is usually hidden, especially in the construction industry, where strength is often associated with silence. Men in this environment are expected to ‘get on with it,’ even when they’re struggling, and that pressure can make it harder to ask for help. It represents the quiet, everyday moments where support actually happens, a hand on a shoulder, standing side by side, being present for someone without needing the right words. Those small gestures can be lifesaving, yet they’re rarely acknowledged or valued in male-dominated industries.”

Jessica Greig, Information Officer at Willmott Dixon, said:

“Men’s mental health remains a critical issue within construction, and it’s vital that we create spaces where people feel able to speak openly. Rob’s work is a visible and lasting reminder that behind every hard hat is first and foremost a human being, and a simple check-in with each other on site can save a life.

“This mural sends a clear message that empathy, connection and checking in with each other are part of how we work. It has been a real privilege to work with Rob on a piece that carries such meaning for us and leaves a positive legacy for the project and the wider community, and we are already seeing the valuable impact it is having on our workforce.”

Lighthouse Charity CEO Sarah Bolton said:

“This artwork, in such a prominent position, delivers a permanent reminder that people are not alone and that help is always available, whatever the size of the problem. Our #MakeItVisible team were also able to share their own lived experiences, encouraging others to start a conversation around positive mental wellbeing and letting people know that they are not alone in dealing with work and life challenges. Thank you to everyone that worked so hard to make this possible.”

Professor Martin Jones, Vice-Chancellor at University of Staffordshire, said:

“It is always a pleasure to see alumni, like Rob, stay connected with University of Staffordshire and help to inspire the next generation of students. He is a fantastic ambassador for the local area and his artworks help to connect communities and highlight important issues. We hope this mural will spark more conversations around mental health and resonate with current students, particularly those who may be navigating similar pressures themselves.”

For mental health support from the Lighthouse Charity, call their free 24/7 helpline on 0345 605 1956, text HARDHAT to 85258, or visit www.lighthousecharity.org.