The City of Langford and the West Shore Developers Association (WSDA) have made a significant commitment to mental health support for tradespeople.
Both the city and WSDA have committed $5,000 to the Forge, a trades-focused mental health and recovery hub located in Langford, constructed by the Construction Foundation of B.C. The City of Langford pledged the donation after the WSDA invited the municipality to match their donation.
On August 18, Langford city council approved the request and challenged other business owners, builders, and developers across Greater Victoria to do the same.
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“The City of Langford stands united with the tradespeople who have built our communities,” said Mayor of Langford Scott Goodmanson.
“Our support is more than a financial donation; it is a statement of solidarity for the tradespeople who have built the communities we call home. It is now our turn to stand with those who stood with us, and we’re calling on our neighbours across Greater Victoria to do the same,” he said.
The Forge, located at 2775 Spencer Road, is a hub that is a safe, peer-driven space where those who work in trades can access free resources that include substance use and mental health support.
It will be open to all tradespeople across the region to address the industry’s concern regarding addiction and mental health challenges.
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In B.C., studies have reported that 30 to 50 per cent of men working in trades died of opioid related causes. The national suicide rate for those working in construction is three times higher than the average across Canada.
The Forge hopes to counteract these statistics through its free counselling, recovery coaching, aftercare, peer mentorship, and employment support programs.
“Tradespeople are at the heart of our communities, yet too many are struggling in silence,” said president of the WSDA Ron Coutre.
“These aren’t just statistics, they’re our neighbours, employees, family, and friends. The Forge will provide practical, stigma-free support in your own community,” he said. “We’re proud to stand behind it, and we urge other builders, developers and municipalities to step up so The Forge can open as soon as possible.”
The fundraising goal for the Forge is $500,000 to complete the recovery of the building. Donations can be made through its website.