In an Australian first, Camden asks R U OK?

Camden council is branding its waste collection trucks with messaging to stimulate life-changing conversations in an Australian first.

Four Council trucks will be badged with ‘R U OK?’ messaging to prompt the community to check in with anyone who might be doing it tough.

“Asking a person how they are is a simple and incredibly effective way of establishing a connection with someone who may otherwise be feeling alone and disengaged,” said Mayor Lara Symkowiak.

“One of the leading causes of suicide is when people feel like they don’t belong and we want to make sure everyone is included, accepted and involved in the community,” Cr Symkowiak said.

In 2015, over 3000 Australians died by suicide, with 75 per cent of those deaths, men. That’s more than eight people per day or one person every three hours.

“While the question is a simple one, its impact can be lifesaving. It is really important to listen to the answer and use it a starting point for more chats in the future,” she said.

R U OK? is proud to partner with Camden Council to raise awareness around suicide prevention and in a national first time, display messages on Council waste trucks.

CEO Brendan Maher is thrilled that Camden Council has taken the initiative to brand their trucks in the suicide prevention charity’s, messaging.

“We couldn’t be happier to be a part of this initiative. The more people who learn the skills to starting a difficult conversation, the more people’s lives we can impact and potentially save.”

“We applaud Camden for being proactive within their council area and hope this idea catches on around the country.”