Publishing the findings from its second COVID-19 survey of architects, the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) said the crisis has had a real impact on the profession.

Forty per cent of respondents said they have suffered from a decline in mental health (a significant increase from 23% in April); while 20% felt isolated.

More than half (56%) said their personal and/or household income has reduced since the start of the outbreak.

On their working situation, 74% said they were working entirely from home, a further 10% said they were working mostly from home, with almost a quarter (24%) said they are caring for others and 13% said they have inadequate equipment.

Working patterns have also changed. Around 15% said they had been furloughed and 27% said they were working reduced hours. On the other hand, 37% reported finding ‘new and better ways of working’.

The economic toll the lockdown has taken on practices was also revealed as 58% reported fewer new business enquiries, 53% reported a decreased workload and 57% said they were experiencing a cashflow reduction.

Around 60% said at least one of their project sites had closed, while 90% reported project delays, citing parties including clients, contractors, planning officers and building control officers.

According to the survey, clients were responsible for most project cancellations, accounting for 48% of decisions to cancel projects.

RIBA CEO, Alan Vallance, said: “Our latest survey findings show the continuing impact of the pandemic on the business of architecture and the wellbeing of architects.

“We are particularly concerned to see a significant decline in mental health, with most having to deal with reduced incomes and many also juggling caring responsibilities with home-working. As lockdown restrictions ease, construction sites re-open and we establish new ways of working, we must prioritise our health and wellbeing – and those of our employees and colleagues – and seek support should we need to. Practice leaders can help by promoting a healthy work-life balance.

“We are here to help members navigate through and beyond this crisis. We are producing regular guidance in response to the profession’s key concerns and lobbying the government to support the sector both financially and as a key client.”

RIBA members with any concerns are encouraged to email info@riba.org for information and support.

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