Sarah Meek is the Managing Director at industry charity Mates in Mind. Mates in Mind was launched in 2016 with the support of HCLG to raise awareness, address the stigma of poor mental health and improve mental wellbeing in the construction sector. Mates in Mind has led in the creation of an innovative and successful maturity model working with organisations of all sizes to nurture and introduce a culture of positive and proactive mental wellbeing amongst their workforce focussing on construction and wider construction-related industries. Key to its success is breaking the silence and stigma that can surround mental health in society and the workplace in sectors such as construction. 

Sarah has extensive experience of working in the public sector and charity sectors. Prior to leading Mates in Mind, she was Director of Operations at Relate leading the strategic direction and service delivery of relationship counselling across England and Wales for individuals, couples, children, young people and families in addition to mediation. As Director of Operations at The Poppy Factory a nationwide military charity, she led the multi award-winning employability service supporting hundreds of British Armed Forces veterans each year with physical or mental health conditions (including those with PTSD, depression and complex health issues) into sustainable employment. 

In addition, Sarah brings 25 years’ experience of working in the NHS – starting as a chartered physiotherapist, progressed to being a Director of Commissioning at a CCG, spent time as a GP practice manager and finally worked as Deputy Director of Operations managing General Medicine, Emergency Care and Therapies at a leading hospital trust in Surrey. Sarah is a trustee at RAF Benevolent Fund and enjoys spending time with family whether paddleboarding, walking or gardening.