Luke raises awareness and funds for Beyond Blue
Earlier this year Winslow Group asked its employees to nominate a charity that was close to their hearts.
Winslow’s Tell Your Story initiative was an opportunity for its employees to nominate a charity that had made a difference to their lives in the past 18 months and would benefit from the donation.
The response was overwhelming.
After careful consideration, Winslow, donated $20,000 to Beyond Blue after Winslow Constructors Foreman Luke Humphrey nominated the mental health support organisation after submitting a very personal story having overcome serious mental health issues.
Building and construction workers are six times more likely to die from suicide than an accident at work and one-in-four building and construction workers are likely to be experiencing a mental health issue at any one time.
Luke recognises the amazing work that Beyond Blue provides to people experiencing mental health issues.
He was happy to share his story and he hopes it will encourage others who may be struggling with mental health issues to speak up.
“You don’t have to be sad to be depressed. I was angry,” Luke said. “I didn’t seek help for six months while trying to fight my depression alone, and it wasn’t until I spoke to my wife, family and friends, who helped me get to the doctor.
“It wasn’t easy, but I did, and it was the start of me getting better.”
Winslow Group Operations Manager Steve Strano praised Luke for sharing his story.
“We all know mental illness is a serious problem in the construction industry. When we read Luke’s story, we were so moved and amazed by his courage in speaking up,” Steve said.
“We care about the health and wellbeing of our employees and their families – the Winslow family – which is why we are eager to support Beyond Blue and the vital work it does for the community.”
Beyond Blue clinical spokesperson, Dr Luke Martin said men can be less inclined to speak up about their mental health issues and reach out for support.
“It’s great to see Luke sharing his story with his colleagues and employers, and leading by example so others may feel comfortable to also open up and talk,” Dr Martin said.
“Thank you to Winslow Group and their employees for supporting Beyond Blue and helping us to deliver our support services which receives up to 800 contacts a day from people right around Australia.”
Winslow donated a cheque to Beyond Blue at a ceremony in Wodonga yesterday attended by Luke and his family and colleagues.
Read more: ‘I’d had enough’ – Luke finds a way forward by opening up on struggles.
Do you need support?
Winslow continues to offer support for employees.
If you feel that you require immediate support or advice, Drake Workwise is our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provider that is a free support service to all Winslow employees and their families.
The EAP offers professional, independent, and confidential counselling for work related or personal issues that affect employee wellbeing.
It’s available 24 hours a day and can be easily accessed by downloading the app called ‘DrakeWorkWise’ or phone: 1300 135 600.
Or call the Beyond Blue Support Service on 1300 22 4636. The Support Service is open 24 hours, seven days a week.