An Apprenticeship is a challenging and rewarding journey that prepares young people for their future careers. But it also comes with its own set of pressures and difficulties, such as balancing work and study, coping with stress and anxiety, and maintaining healthy relationships.
This is why Men & Co. Services, a not-for-profit support organisation, developed the Harness program and in collaboration with Inscope Training, has been able to deliver their program to apprentice students since the start of 2023.
The Harness program delivers interactive toolbox talks that cover topics such as personal and relationship wellbeing, the impact of choices on life and others, strategies to improve mental health and communication skills, and resources to seek professional help when needed. Talks are held twice a month at Inscope’s Capalaba Training Centre.
The CSQ funded program focuses on preventing domestic violence perpetration and victimisation in the construction industry by providing a safe and supportive environment for apprentices to learn and seek support. As part of their comprehensive service delivery, Harness offers free one-on-one support to students and staff at Inscope Training.
Recently, a situation arose where an Inscope apprentice student was grappling with multiple concerns. In a proactive move, Inscope trainers sought the apprentice’s consent and referred them to Harness.
Subsequent conversations with a Harness counsellor allowed the apprentice to voice his stressors openly, free from judgment. Together, the apprentice and the Harness counsellor devised a personalized plan to address the most distressing aspects of his life. Topics covered included emotional coping, managing intense feelings, dealing with alcohol use, navigating grief, and handling financial stress.
After engaging with a Harness counsellor and implementing recommended strategies, the apprentice reported a significant reduction in anger—an achievement he had never thought possible. Feedback from the toolbox talks has also been overwhelmingly positive, with many apprentices reporting improved confidence, self-esteem, and resilience.
An apprentice, who wished to remain anonymous, said:
“The Harness program has helped me a lot with my personal issues and my relationships. I feel more comfortable talking about my feelings and asking for help when I need it. I also learned a lot of useful skills that I can apply in my work and life.”
Inscope Training and Men & Co are proud of the success of their collaboration to support apprentice’s wellbeing. They believe by investing in the wellbeing of apprentices, they are not only creating better construction industry workers, but also better citizens and community members.
Visit Men & Co’s Harness program for further information on the Harness program.
Visit Inscope Training Trade Apprentice training for further information on the training provided to apprentices.
