Mental health in construction: ITV Meridian visits North Gate Hall

Recently, the Barr Build team and our client, the Oxford Presbyterian Church, welcomed ITV Meridian to a central Oxford site. North Gate Hall, which is currently being returned to its historic ecclesiastical purpose, served as the backdrop for a feature examining how the construction industry is addressing a growing mental health crisis.

You can watch Wesley's report here.

The conversation is a vital one. Across the UK, construction continues to face some of the highest suicide rates of any sector — a reality that weighs heavily on every team, every project, and every family.

As we reflect on World Mental Health Day 2025, we’re reminded that awareness is only the first step. True change comes from care — from checking in, from speaking out, and from recognising that no one should face these challenges alone.

North Gate Hall provided a particularly appropriate backdrop for this mental health and community-focused TV news story. Now in the safe hands of its new, long-term custodians, Oxford Presbyterian Church, the building is being returned to its original Christian function as a place of hope, support, and inclusion for Oxford's diverse city centre community. 

Barr Build is proud to be working for Oxford Pres, under the guidance of the renowned historic architect Quinlan Terry, to restore this wonderful piece of our country's ecclesiastical heritage to its original use. 

Read more about the project and Oxford Pres' North Gate Hall journey here.

Our sincere thanks go to the Federation of Master Builders and their PR team at et al. for their support in helping to set up the interview and shine a light on such an important issue for our industry.

If you or someone you know in the construction community needs help, please reach out to The Lighthouse Charity. Their confidential support line is available 24/7, and their team is always ready to listen.