One ambitious individual in the live events industry is set to undertake a herculean physical challenge this April – 30 marathons in 30 days, travelling from the Isle of Skye in Scotland to London.
David Walmsley, crew chief of Crewsaders (a company that provides event staff), is taking on the challenge to raise funds and awareness for mental health across the events and production sector. The run will support industry charity Backup Tech, alongside Mind and Scottish Action for Mental Health. The challenge is incredibly intense – one marathon every day for a month. This will cover hundreds of miles across the UK while moving between locations.
Mental health an issue for events?
Mental health pressures in live events have become a growing concern in recent years. Work is often project-based, with long hours, travel and periods of uncertainty between contracts, particularly for freelance crew and production staff. The rise of zero-hour contracts and short-term work does not translate to peace of mind on the part of event workers.
In response, a number of industry-specific organisations have emerged. Backup Tech provides support for those working in event production. Eventwell, a company that provides quiet rooms at events, also runs campaigns for Event Wellbeing Week. 6ft From the Spotlight, meanwhile, focuses on mental health support for touring crews in the industry. Broader services including Mind and Samaritans are also used.
Training has also increased, with some companies introducing mental health first aiders to provide on-site support during events.
Importance of having some understanding around mental health issues
When speaking to event wellbeing companies such as Eventwell, one main issue that has become apparent is the lack of understanding about the issues that can occur. There is of course a balance to be struck between providing support to individuals that need it and also having a structure of what is expected for employees to realistically deliver.
But when mental health issues do arise, it is in everybody’s best interest to respond properly and not dismiss the concerns, particularly as we are an industry that struggles with talent retention.
Walmsley’s challenge will run throughout April, as he moves through towns and cities on the route south, aiming to raise both funds and visibility for an issue that continues to affect many working behind the scenes of events.
