Engineering and construction students in Stevenage are tackling the construction sector’s "mental health crisis" with yoga.

The North Hertfordshire College’s campus team has been participating in sessions each Monday throughout this year in a bid to raise awareness of strategies to help look after wellbeing.

Staff return to their motor vehicle workshop after work hours to clear a space for Rick Nunn, a professional yoga instructor, to conduct an hour-long class.

These sessions are in response to the increasing suicide rates within the UK construction sector, specifically evidenced in the 2021 statistics from a Mates in Mind study.

Virginia, an inclusion assistant and organiser of the yoga sessions, said: "In the short time we have had these sessions, they have greatly contributed to my overall wellbeing.

"It is helping me towards a positive change both mentally and physically.

"Also, I spend time with colleagues and enjoy a laugh together."

James, an IT technician, said: "I enjoy the yoga sessions with Rick as it is a great way to relax at the end of the working day.

"The various stretches have really helped me improve my flexibility in these areas, reducing my aches."

The benefits extend beyond the physical according to Nicola, a support coach.

She highlighted her job's challenges and how yoga has become a crucial part of her mental wellbeing.

She added: "Being a support coach within the college means I can deal with some difficult subjects.

"Yoga has been a vital part of my wellbeing and mental health after a long day at work.

"I can switch off from the day, laugh (at myself), and it then also sets me up for the week ahead. It has been lovely to mix with other staff I don’t always see too."

The engineering and construction campus at North Hertfordshire College is an industry-leading learning facility which aims to focus on current and future trends of the industry.

A spokesperson for the college said: "Staff hope that by demonstrating the positive impact of wellbeing strategies, like yoga, their students will be prepared to enter the construction industry, and understand how to support the wellbeing of themselves and their colleagues."