Fly the Flag for suicide prevention: 10 Sept 2020

The MATES flags are a visual reminder to stop and take a moment to re-commit to being a mate who will look out for a mate. To have that 10 seconds of courage to say, ‘Hey mate, are you OK?’
 

What is Fly the Flag?
Fly the Flag is for the construction industry to show support, and raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention. The message is about taking the time out of a day to remind each other to notice when our mates may be struggling and that it’s not only OK to have these conversations, but essential and important! This is about letting the greater community know that MATES in Construction is committed to looking out for our mates!

Events can take place right through the week of the 7^th – 11^th of September. Check out how you can register your site, how to be involved and resources available through the Mates in Construction website.

Why is the campaign for construction industry workers so important?
Unfortunately, we are leading the way for suicides by occupation in New Zealand. This campaign not only acknowledges we have a problem in our industry but also that we need to change. It empowers our industry to do something about it, by starting to have transparent conversations that matter. By having mates helping mates we will see people getting help and support before it gets to a tipping point.

How do I get my site involved?

• Flying the MATES flag shows your support and raises awareness of suicide prevention in the industry.  It is a display to the broader community that the construction industry is actively involved in the prevention of suicide.
• Organise an event to happen during the week of Fly the Flag 7^th – 11^th September. Have a BBQ on site or have a chat at a toolbox talk highlighting it’s ok to look after your mental health and wellbeing and to talk to each other about it.
• Share your Fly the Flag event on social media using the hashtag #flytheflag2020.
• Share the message through your own networks to show that you are taking part, to help raise awareness and prevent suicide in our industry.

Talk to your local MP’s and councillors to encourage them to acknowledge the changes we are making in our industry.