Are you an R U OK? Workplace Champion?

hello • 3 August 2020

R U OK? today released new resources to encourage more business leaders, owners and employees to build an R U OK? Culture in their workplace. 



The R U OK? Workplace Champions Guide promotes peer-to-peer support and regular meaningful conversations amongst colleagues in the workplace. 

R U OK? CEO Katherine Newton says for an R U OK? conversation to be meaningful it must be authentic and involve a level of trust between people who know each other and are familiar with each other’s routines and behaviours.  

“When we live, socialise or work closely alongside someone, we can be the first to spot changes that might indicate someone is struggling,” said Ms Newton.  

“Many workplaces are beginning to plan their activities for R U OK?Day and we always welcome the positive and vibrant atmosphere this annual day brings. We also encourage organisations to provide opportunities for authentic connections in a quiet, comfortable and safe environment, not only on this day but all year round.” 

“Building a culture of asking R U OK? is one action organisations can take that demonstrates they are genuine in their intention to provide a connected workplace for all staff and are serious about providing a mentally healthy workplace and supporting suicide prevention efforts.” 

R U OK? recognises that workplace initiatives are often effective when driven by ‘Champions’ within the workplace.  

“Champions are the ‘beating heart’ of change and can be the motivating force to drive a commitment to an R U OK? Culture within a workplace,” said Ms Newton. “They provide a familiar relevant face and can enhance feelings of belonging and trust. Our new resources will provide a framework to help R U OK? Workplace Champions build an R U OK? Culture.” 

An R U OK? Culture is one where employees are encouraged to talk about the challenges they might be experiencing in a judgement free environment where they feel psychologically safe and supported. 

A survey of Australian workers commissioned by R U OK? found only half strongly or moderately agree: 

  • I feel supported and valued at work (50%) 

  • My managers genuinely care about their wellbeing (50%) 

  • When I am at work, I have a sense of connection and feel I belong (51%)  

“We are encouraged that 85% of Australian workers surveyed agreed they would help a workmate who is struggling with life,” said Ms Newton. “The next step is to ensure we equip all workers with the skills to navigate a meaningful conversation. 

“This highlights the importance of our message for this year’s R U OK?Day which is ‘there’s more to say after R U OK?’.” 

The new free resources include a R U OK? Champions Guide, Workplace Action Plan and Workplace Promise and are designed for any industry across Australia. The R U OK? Workplace Champions resources have been developed with the support of Avis Budget Group.  

There’s more to say after R U OK? learn what to say at ruok.org.au  

Nazik, in a yellow t shirt, at an R U OK? event.

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The recent incident in Sydney has left many feeling distressed and overwhelmed, and you may notice the children in your life are struggling too. Below, you’ll find advice from mental health experts on caring for your own wellbeing, and providing meaningful support to others in the days and weeks ahead. Talking to children about traumatic events Children are likely to have seen and heard distressing information about this incident. Ongoing news coverage, images and discussion can intensify feelings of anxiety, sadness and anger. The Child Mind Institute has published a practical guide to help parents and carers talk with children about traumatic events. The guide offers practical age-specific advice and has been developed by experts in child psychology, you can access this guide here . Events involving violence or serious harm can be especially difficult for children to understand or discuss. The guide focuses on helping children feel safe, supported and reassured, and encourages parents, carers or guardians to: Provide comfort and reassurance, including physical affection Remain calm and measured when discussing the event Maintain regular routines to restore a sense of normality Encourage play, connection and time with others Share honest, age-appropriate information from trusted sources Limit children’s exposure to news, especially younger children Listen patiently and validate children’s feelings Recognise that fear, anger, sadness or guilt are all normal reactions Looking after yourself, and supporting others Rachel Clements, R U OK? Advisor, and Director of Psychological Services at Centre for Corporate Health, said strong emotional reactions are normal and healthy for people of all ages following public acts of violence, even among those not directly impacted. “Some reactions that are incredibly normal are concern, shock, horror, disbelief. When that wears off sometimes, people experience stronger feelings, sometimes anger, despair, sadness, anxiety or fear-based behaviour."  Ms Clements advised that connecting with friends, sporting clubs, or workplace networks, and simply asking ‘are you OK?’, can play a key role in supporting people experiencing distress. "This event will disrupt the nervous system. One of the most important things we can do is stay connected, talk to each other and lean into supportive conversations,” Ms Clements said. She suggested starting a genuine conversation by asking questions such as: 'it's been tough watching this information coming to light, how are you feeling about it?’ “Then, all you’ve got to do is listen with empathy, without judgment or interruption, and just allow someone to talk about their experience and how they are feeling. When it is the right time in the conversation, you can then gently guide someone towards supportive actions, like doing some gentle exercise, staying connected with friends and family, or maintaining regular routines.” Ms Clements emphasised the importance of checking in again to ensure people have continued support. If you notice someone’s distress is ongoing for several weeks and begins to affect their work or social life, professional help should be encouraged. If you or the children in your care are experiencing ongoing distress, consider speaking with a doctor or another trusted healthcare provider. Free and professional 24/7counselling services are available, find contact details here . If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 000. Ask R U OK? Any Day.
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