In this article, Sarah Butcher, Manager at Welfare Hire Nationwide, discusses how the company’s ECOXi welfare unit can be used to support better onsite mental health, to coincide with Time to Talk Day, the UK’s biggest mental health conversation and a day workplace to come together to talk, listen and change lives.
With its fast-paced project environments, high-pressure deadlines, and physically demanding work, the rail industry can be a tough space for site workers. Long hours, remote locations, and tight deadlines can take a real toll on workers’ mental wellbeing—but too often, breaks and safe spaces aren’t prioritised on-site.
That’s why at Welfare Hire Nationwide, we’re leading the charge in revolutionising site welfare. Our ECOXi welfare unit is the latest innovation in our exciting range of facilities; a comfortable, welcoming space where teams can take a breather, talk, and support each other. And at a time when the spotlight is on workplace mental health, that message couldn’t be more important.
Why mental health on site matters
The stats don’t lie- mental health struggles are alarmingly common in the rail industry. A 2019 RSSB report found that 43% of rail workers experienced a mental health issue in the past year- far higher than the national average. In the wider construction sector, a 2020 study by the CIOB found that 87% of UK construction workers experienced anxiety while 26% had experienced suicidal thoughts.
Mental health should never be a taboo topic, yet in industries like rail and construction, stress, isolation, and pressure can make it hard to speak up.
Breaking the silence
That’s why Time to Talk Day, the UK’s biggest mental health conversation, is so important. Held annually on the first Thursday of February, the day is all about breaking the silence, encouraging open discussions, and reminding everyone that talking really can save lives.
Across the industry, employers need to do better. And that starts with providing spaces that make a difference.
The ECOXi: More than just a welfare unit
Welfare Hire’s ECOXi is a unique innovation for rail and construction sites and the ideal facility for prioritising employee mental health. It’s spacious, comfortable, and sustainable—a true “safe space” where workers can take a break, reset, and connect with colleagues.
- Room for up to 10 people: More space, more comfort, more conversations.
- Separate canteen, office, drying room & WC: A welfare unit designed for real people, not just regulations.
- Solar-powered & zero emissions: Fully sustainable with lithium battery technology.
- Smart telemetry system: Efficient power and water use at your fingertips.
- Rainwater harvesting & non-chemical toilets: For enhanced hygiene and sustainability.
Building a culture that puts people first
Mental health isn’t just an HR issue, it’s an issue affecting all aspects of the workplace and should be treated as a priority. When workers have a comfortable space to unwind, it boosts morale, productivity, and safety. The ECOXi is about more than meeting welfare standards. It’s about creating a culture where people feel valued and supported.
At Welfare Hire Nationwide, we believe in transforming site welfare for the better. The ECOXi welfare unit is proof that small changes make a big difference—because better welfare means better mental health.
So, let’s start talking, listening, and making real changes. Because our workforce deserves it.
Want to see the ECOXi in action? Check out the full specs here: Kelling Group ECOXi Spec Sheet
