The inaugural meeting of the new Health Working Group in WA/NT will be held on 10 September, which coincides with R U OK? Day. Mental Health will be the first issue addressed by the Group.
Participants at the recent Safer Together Virtual Industry Safety Forum Event identified health and wellbeing as one of the most important things that we need to focus on to maintain safety in our Industry. This came as no surprise. 2020 has been a challenging year for everyone. Isolation, anxiety about COVID-19 health risks, and economic difficulties currently being experienced in our Industry have increased awareness of the importance of looking after our health and wellbeing, particularly our mental health.
The WA/NT SLG have agreed to establish a Health Working Group to assist the Industry to address the health and wellbeing of our workforce. This Group will be led by Sander Stegenga (Shell) and Vince D’Rozario (CHC Helicopters). They have both agreed that mental health should be the first order of business. The first meeting of this Group is scheduled for 10 September.
Fittingly, 10 September is R U OK? day. It’s our national day of action when all Australians are reminded that every day is the day to ask, “Are you OK?” if someone in your world is struggling with life’s ups and downs. This year, circumstances have made it even more important for us all to stay connected and, for those who are able, be willing to support those around us.
The message for R U OK? Day 2020 is: There’s more to say after R U OK?
You don't need to be an expert to reach out - just a good friend and a great listener. Use these four steps and have a conversation that could change or even save a life:
- Ask R U OK?
- Listen
- Encourage action
- Check in
Click here to Learn What to Say After R U OK? If someone says they’re not OK, make time to listen, encourage action and check in.
Click here to download a Guide on how to support R U OK? Day. It has tips, ideas and resources to help you share the R U OK? message and encourage everyone to learn what to say after R U OK?
Click here for information on how to host your own R U OK? Day event. These are a great way to bring people together face-to-face or online to see the power of conversation, learn R U OK?’s 4 conversation steps, connect and get to know one another a little better. Whether it's a morning tea, webinar, sausage sizzle or a team picnic, you can encourage people to be part of your awareness efforts.
Click here for Health Matters - a place where you can find help to address health and wellbeing. It’s also a place where you share what you’re doing to manage health and wellbeing in your workplace.
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