12-09-2023
The idea of RUOK Day starts with a conversation.
This year, on RUOK DAY, Upper Lachlan Shire Council is organising “Cuppa and a Convo” sessions at several towns and villages across the Shire to encourage people to get together, have a chat, and reach out to at least one person who might be doing it tough or could do with hearing from someone.
“There are a number of days on the calendar that focus on mental health, but RUOK day is unique in that it encourages us to not only think about mental health but to do something about it… it is easy to reach out to someone and just check how they are doing,” said Council HR Manager Peta Gardiner.
These Cuppa and a Convo gatherings are aimed at getting communities to come together for a bit of a natter and catch up, and that alone might help someone having a bad time of it, but also to take that one further and connect with someone, check with them – it could be a conversation that changed a life.
The Cuppa and a Convo sessions will feature a cuppa, some snacks, some very brief guest speakers and then the encouragement to reach out to someone.
“You don’t necessarily need to say the words Are you ok, although they are a pretty good place to start,” Ms Gardiner said.
You don’t need to be an expert, just a friendly ear and a good listener. Making contact often makes a big difference and the chat that follows may be just what they need to help.”
“Making the contact alone often makes a big difference, and the chat that follows may take you where you need to go.”
The RUOK sessions will be held at the following locations on RUOK Day, 14 September 2023. If you wish to attend, please contact Council on council@upperlachlan.nsw.gov.au for catering.
- Taralga (Old Courthouse) – 9.30 am
- Crookwell (Memorial Hall) – 11.30 am
- Gunning (Council Chambers) – 2.30 pm