CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY HELPLINE
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The holiday season can be a happy time, but it also brings financial and emotional pressure for many people. Our "Coping During the Holiday Season" campaign is here to offer practical support for people who might be struggling, especially those in the construction industry, where financial stress and mental health challenges are common. 
Financial Pressure

In December, people in the UK spend £740 more than in any other month. This covers gifts, food, and celebrations, but these extra costs can push many into debt or cause financial stress that lasts well beyond the holiday season. For people on tight budgets or dealing with job uncertainty, this added expense can make it harder to feel in control and start the new year on the right foot. Our campaign aims to help people spend mindfully and manage their money better, so they don’t end up overwhelmed by debt or stress in January.
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Tips for Budgeting and Saving Money:
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  • Plan and Set a Budget: Outline a realistic budget to prevent overspending.
  • Avoid Unnecessary Gifts: Think twice before buying gifts. Consider if they are really necessary.
  • Get Crafty with Gifts and Cards: Personal, handmade gifts can often mean more than expensive purchases.
  • Compare Prices: Use tools such as mysupermarketcompare.co.uk to find the best deals.
  • Upcycle Decorations: Repurpose decorations from previous years to reduce costs.
  • Organise a Secret Santa: Set a manageable budget and organise a secret santa with family and friends.​

Click the button below to visit our 'Talk Money Week' campaign page to discover more financial wellbeing tips and resources.
talk money week campaign
Mental Health Challenges
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The holiday season isn’t happy for everyone. 88% of people say they feel pressured to “enjoy” Christmas or pretend to be happy, and 84% say their mental health gets worse around this time. For many, this time of year can be lonely, stressful, and full of pressure to meet expectations. This can make existing mental health challenges feel even heavier, especially for those who feel isolated or are dealing with loss, money worries, or difficult family relationships.

I​n the construction industry, where mental health issues are already prevalent, the holidays can be even tougher. People may feel they have to join in the celebrations or provide for their families, even if they’re struggling financially or emotionally. This campaign is here to remind people that they’re not alone and to offer ways to cope with the season in a way that works for them.
Mental Health Tips:
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  • Set Boundaries: Respect your own limits with family and friends. Give yourself permission to say "no."
  • Focus on Enjoying Experiences: Emphasise moments and experiences over material things.
  • Reconnect with Loved Ones: Spend time with those who support and uplift you.
  • Limit Screen Time: Reduce social media usage to avoid the comparison trap.
  • Practice Gratitude and Self-Care: Take time each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for and do activities that make you happy.
  • Reach Out for Help: If you’re struggling, remember we’re here 24/7.

If you're feeling lonely, low or worried...
Reach out to us, we're here to talk to you.

Ring our free 24/7 helpline
0345 605 1956 (UK)
​1800 939 122 (ROI)

Text HARDHAT to
85258 (UK)
​50808 (ROI)

Find your local Lighthouse Beacon Support Group
Click here

Try our new Live Chat Service by clicking the icon in the bottom right hand corner of the page
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Download our 'Coping During the Holiday Season' assets, including graphics and social media copy, so you can help us raise awareness.

Download assets
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The Lighthouse Charity

​Suffolk Enterprise Centre
Felaw Maltings
Felaw Street
Ipswich, IP2 8SJ

Head Office

[email protected]
Tel: 0345 609 1956
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Registered Charity No. UK 1149488 | Registered Charity No. ROI 20200334 | Company No. 08244118 | Copyright - The Lighthouse Charity 2024
  • Home
  • About Us
    • Who We've Helped
    • Our Supporters
  • Need Help Now?
  • Helpline App
    • Download on IOS
    • Download on Android
  • Learning Resources
  • Mental Wellbeing
  • Physical Wellbeing
  • Financial Wellbeing
    • Budgeting
    • Debt
    • Universal Credit