Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds has launched the Roadshow, a mental health outreach program, that will tour across the country in a medium rigid DAF.
Starting this March, the Roadshow will take on 18 industry events across 2022 to provide mental health support through resources developed by HHTS and promote educational materials tailored to the needs of the heavy vehicle and supply chain sector.
Use of the free Healthy Heads App is encouraged and will be complemented with pocket-sized handbooks with practical mental health and wellbeing tips, which will be distributed by the Roadshow team.
The vehicle was initiated by PACCAR Australia, its dealers and the Australian Trucking Association. It provides HHTS with the opportunity to reach truck drivers, warehouse and distribution centre staff, on mental health and wellbeing issues.
Naomi Frauenfelder, CEO at HHTS, said the Roadshow will allow HHTS to connect with those in the industry who may not have access to the tools they need to take care of their mental health.
“Our long-term ambition is to make mental health part of everyday conversation and the Roadshow provides HHTS with the means to help people in the sector feel more connected,” Frauenfelder said.
“It’s about stopping to have a chat and knowing where to turn when support is needed,” she said.
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The Roadshow was backed through major industry partners, including PACCAR Australia and Dealer Industry Fund, joining HHTS as a Foundational Sponsor.
bp will also provide HHTS with access to their network of over 500 sites, in addition to their sponsorship.
Crucial funding toward this initiative also comes from The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) via the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative, supported by the Federal Government.
“At PACCAR we prioritise mental health as much as we do safety,” said Andrew Hadjikakou, Managing Director at PACCAR Australia.
“In partnering with HHTS as a Foundational Sponsor and contributing to the delivery of the Roadshow we are proud to show our commitment to better mental health and wellbeing for the wider transport and logistics industry,” Hadjikakou said.
NVRH CEO Sal Petroccitto also echoed the same sentiments, saying that improving the mental health and wellbeing of everyone in the industry is a priority for the NHVR, and is pivotal in keeping all road users safe.
The Roadshow will be hosting events in Albury, Marulan and Gundagai at bp facilities. Events will be free and open to anyone who works in road transport, warehousing and logistics.
Source: HHTS