R U OK? has developed a free quick guide to help local government build a greater sense of connection across the community and amongst council staff in the workplace throughout the year.
The guide is available at ruok.org.au/LGA and recognises the local government’s important role in promoting workplace and community wellbeing.
“A lot can happen in a year, a month, a week,” said Katherine Newton, CEO R U OK? “Whether it’s your friend, family member, colleague, partner, or teammate, the people you care about go through life’s ups and downs every day.
“So, while R U OK?Day on Thursday 12 September 2024, is our National Day of Action; we encourage you to Ask R U OK? any day of the year because a conversation can change a life,“ continued Ms Newton.
The reminder comes as 72 per cent of Australians are reporting elevated levels of distress . However, R U OK? research has found an overwhelming majority (90 per cent) of people who are regularly asked R U OK? feel more supported, connected, and cared about.
“There is an increase in supporting behaviours around R U OK?Day, our National Day of Action,” said Ms Newton. “However, we don’t want people waiting until September to reach out to the people in their world who might be struggling because life happens every day.”
Importantly, research shows when people feel connected and have a sense of belonging, it’s a protective factor against suicide .
Visit ruok.org.au for free tips and tools to build the Ask R U OK? Any Day message across your year.
Lifeline provides free and confidential crisis support at any time of day or night. Call 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14 or chat online at lifeline.org.au.
13YARN is a free 24/7 service offering crisis support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Call 13YARN (13 92 76).
A Free and Quick Guide for Local Councils
This guide from R U OK? lists free resources and ideas to help you create a more connected local community and workplace that supports those who may be struggling.
• Share the R U OK? message with residents through the year.
• Ways you can share the message any day.
• Build an R U OK? culture in your workplace.
• Easy ways to get involved.
Download the free R U OK? guide at: ruok.org.au/LGA
