Lighthouse Charity, Willmott Dixon and artist Rob Fenton recently unveiled a mural at Staffordshire’s new Student Village in support of men’s mental health. The striking mural depicts a lighthouse, shining a beacon of hope and a positive message for the construction community.
The unveiling was part of a site wide Safety Stand Down focusing on men’s mental health. The mural was facilitated by the Lighthouse Charity’s #MakeItVisible team.
University of Staffordshire alumnus and local artist Rob Fenton created the artwork in collaboration Willmott Dixon and the Lighthouse Charity. The charity provides 24/7 holistic emotional, physical and financial wellbeing support to the construction community.
Highlighting mental wellbeing
The mural focuses on the quieter, often overlooked forms of support that play a vital role in mental wellbeing.
“The artwork is important because it creates a visible, public moment for a conversation that is usually hidden – especially in the construction industry, where strength is often associated with silence,” Rob explained. “Men in this environment are expected to ‘get on with it,’ even when they’re struggling. That pressure can make it harder to ask for help.
It represents the quiet, everyday moments where support actually happens. This could be a hand on a shoulder, standing side by side, being present for someone without needing the right words. Those small gestures can be lifesaving, yet they’re rarely acknowledged or valued in male-dominated industries.”
Rob added, “To return with a piece of work that has social purpose, rather than purely aesthetic value, makes it even more special. Being on campus in this capacity feels like a full-circle moment.”
Willmott Dixon is leading on the construction of the Student Village. They have worked with Rob throughout the project, reflecting a wider commitment to improving mental health awareness within the industry.
Those involved share their thoughts
Jessica Greig, Information Officer, said, “Men’s mental health remains a critical issue within construction, and it’s vital that we create spaces where people feel able to speak openly. Rob’s work is a visible reminder that behind every hard hat is first and foremost a human being. This mural sends a clear message that empathy, connection and checking in with each other are part of how we work. It has been a real privilege to work with Rob on a piece that carries such meaning for us and leaves a positive legacy for the project and the wider community. We are already seeing the valuable impact it is having on our workforce.”
Lighthouse Charity CEO, Sarah Bolton, said, “This amazing piece of artwork, in such a prominent position delivers a permanent reminder that people are not alone with their struggles. Our #MakeItVisible team were also able to share their own lived experiences, encouraging others to start a conversation around positive mental wellbeing. Thank you to everyone that worked so hard to make this possible.”
Professor Martin Jones, Vice-Chancellor at University of Staffordshire, said, “It is always a pleasure to see alumni stay connected and help to inspire the next generation of students. We hope this mural will spark more conversations around mental health and resonate with current students, particularly those who may be navigating similar pressures themselves.”
