MATES fly the flag

The not-for-profit organisation MATES is running its “Fly the Flag” initiative from September 9–13 as part of National Suicide Prevention Week, to celebrate the role of more than 300,000 Australian workers in preventing suicide.

MATES Fly the Flag is part of an initiative that recognises the work of MATES volunteers trained to identify the signs of change in their colleagues and initiate conversations that could save a life.

MATES national CEO Chris Lockwood says the organisation has trained more than 300,000 people across the construction, mining, and energy sectors.

“From this, we’ve been able to build a volunteer workforce of over 30,000 volunteers who know how to have the difficult conversations that can save a life,” Lockwood says.

“Fly the Flag is a hi-vis strategy to bring an often-hidden topic to the surface so we can help as many people as possible.”

Recent research shows potential drivers of suicidal thoughts often have a strong relationship to job security and the demands of work.

Lockwood says the research has also found that many people – men in particular – still struggle with the idea of needing to access mental health support. Current statistics show that, on average, every second day a construction worker dies by suicide.

“It’s so important for workmates to be aware of the signs that someone might be struggling, know how to have the delicate but important conversations, and then connect that person with suitable help,” says Lockwood.

Over 100,000 workers across more than 900 job sites are expected to participate in Fly the Flag for your MATES this year, to show their support for their colleagues and the importance of mental health awareness.

If you or someone you know needs help, contact the MATES 24/7 help line at 1300 642 111 or visit the website.