News

Club managers walk way to support mental health

ALWAYS mindful that the mental health of their employees is just as important as their physical health, Bankstown Sports Club has a range of employee support programs, but one of their biggest strengths is the club’s Duty Manager Liam Hodge.

Undertaking Lifeline counselling training since last year, with the club jumping at the idea when Liam first mentioned it and giving him full support, he has also formed a team with fellow duty managers and other staff to take part in and fundraise for the Black Dog Institute in this year’s Exercise Your Mood Walk at Sydney Olympic Park next Saturday, October 12.Continued page 40
“We deal with mental health issues on a daily basis – from staff to patrons,” Liam said.
“With the majority of our staff under 30 and dealing with their own social issues and problems, it is the club’s goal to create as safe a place as possible and to empower them to be able to ask for help.
“We see some of our young staff more than they see their own parents so that’s why I am doing the Lifeline training so I know I am offering them correct professional guidance.”
Liam said that galvanising the troops to take part in the Exercise Your Mood Walk was just an extension of that goal.
“We know that exercise lifts mood and improves mental health so that’s why myself and the other duty managers – Steve Jubb, Louise Townsend and Ryan Hilliard – decided to do this fundraiser.”
To donate, find the team ‘ewokthisway’ at teamblackdog.org.au.

Employer can make difference

EMPLOYERS and workplaces can play an active and significant role in maintaining the health and wellbeing of their workers as well as assisting in recovery from mental health issues.
Placing health and wellbeing at the heart of business can help employers attract and retain talent, improve productivity and happiness, and positively impact the bottom line.
Employers should:
• Observe any changes in behaviour and ask if everything is Ok.
• Educate employees about mental health issues.
• Provide resources to better manage mental health problems.
• Create a stress-free work environment.
• Encourage time off and work/life balance.
• Listen as much as you talk.
• Praise good work.