Rail R U OK?Day was held Thursday 20 April with great success. Over 10,500 participants from more than 30 organisations celebrated this industry-wide event focusing on engaging rail staff in conversations about their emotional status by prompting them to answer one simple question: are you ok? Organisations became involved in various ways with some celebrating via BBQ's and morning teas and others holding well-being workshops and team building sessions.
The rail industry even received a special message of support from the Prime Minister:
“Given the stressors that rail industry staff are exposed to, it is heartening to see you take steps to create safer, stronger and more supportive workplaces, while addressing the stigma surrounding the mental health impacts of exposure to such incidents.
This Rail R U Ok? Day I encourage everyone to reach out to colleagues who are doing it tough, to start the conversation about mental health, and to work together to save lives.
Through coordinated efforts, let us ensure that the years ahead mark a turning point for suicide and poor mental health, as we progress towards creating a more caring and resilient society,” The Hon Malcolm Turnbull MP, Prime Minister of Australia.
Click here to access full statement from the Prime Minister
There were celebrations taking place on the Concourse at Sydney's Central Station where rail employees were able to meet R U OK? Ambassador and former NRL player, Brett Finch. Retiring from NRL three years ago, Brett shared with the rail industry how he struggled with the loss of football. Brett explained that the decision to be honest and face up to his demons was one of the hardest things he’d ever done. The positive reaction he got publicly and personally, was the complete opposite to what he expected. As a result, Brett helps others who might be struggling to feel comfortable and reassured enough to seek help. TrackSAFE would like to thank Brett Finch for being this year's Rail R U OK?Day Ambassador and for his dedication to the cause.
Congratulations to the participating Australian and New Zealand rail organisations for a highly successful Rail R U OK?Day for 2017, with special thanks to the 52 Company Champions who helped drive the initiative internally within their organisations. TrackSAFE now looks forward to hearing how rail employees are making a commitment to look out for one another all year round.
