Next week we will launch our Mental Health and Wellbeing Campaign – the Five Ways to Wellbeing.  A campaign that will raise awareness and promote the positive ways in which people can support their own mental health.

To advocate this movement and help implement the Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy and Action Plan, we have started to train a peer support network of Mental Health Champions with the necessary skills to help reduce the stigma of mental health in our workplaces, and direct our people to available resources when they need them.

Who are our Mental Health Champions?

Mental Health ChampionsDownload File

What is the role of a Mental Health Champion?

• Connect – Listen and support people dealing with mental health related issues. Connect them with support and resources

• Take Notice – Be aware of small changes in your colleagues that may signify either a struggle or an impact on their mental health

• Learn – Continue to watch and learn all you can about mental health including support networks in your local communities

• Give – Be generous with your time, compassion, support and empathy to your colleagues where needed

• Be Active – Participate in peer forums and actively share new information about mental health to normalise the discussion and actively challenge stigma associated with mental health

So far we have had more than 80 people apply to join the Mental Health Champion Programme and help our people thrive.  More programmes will continue to roll out over the year so if you are interested please apply through the online forms portal.

Here are a couple of quotes from Champions who have attended.

Grace Freckleton, HC Advisor said “I am so thankful to have shared yesterday with the wonderful Sydney cohort of Mental Health Champions. I am really looking forward to sharing this journey with you and creating an environment where everyone is comfortable to speak about mental health and wellbeing”.

Enda Conneely, Site Manager said “What a very enjoyable day yesterday with some great engagement with people from all different vocations within LORAC. It is very reassuring that we have so many people within our Company that are so dedicated to dealing with Mental Health and Wellbeing. It is a privilege to be part of the first Mental Health Champions Workshop and to meet new people who are so committed to this challenge. Thanks to Laing O’Rourke for putting Mental Health as a priority for its people. Well done everyone. #wearyourpinwithpride

If you have any queries please contact Lisa McKeown, HSE Strategy and Programme Leader.

0409 751 718

Let’s all make the most of every day.