MaxiTRANS ask, R U OK?

Trailer giant gets behind national mental health initiative to highlight suicide prevention

Australian trailer manufacturer MaxiTRANS recently got behind 'R U OK? Day', with donations from the firm to the mental health and suicide prevention initiative totaling $15,000.

In supporting the cause, MaxiTRANS had pledged to donate one per cent of all transactions on its trailer and parts ranges on R U Okay? day, which was held on Tuesday, September 14.

The day is held each year to encourage people to check in with friends, family and colleagues to see how they're coping with life – a quick and easy measure that can possibly open up a far broader discussion, and potentially even save a life.

MaxiTRANS Managing Director and CEO, Dean Jenkins, said that ‘R U OK?’ stands for an important cause for the industry.

"'R U OK? Day' promotes an important message – the simple act of asking somebody 'are you okay', combined with genuine interest and follow-through in the response could save a life," he said.

"Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians aged between 15 and 44. The most recent data reports that deaths from suicide equate to around 3000 per year, which is over two times higher than our annual Australian road toll. It's an important issue that should not be forgotten as an industry when we are discussing employee safety and wellbeing."

MaxiTRANS' donation of $15,000 will go towards R U OK?'s work in raising further awareness for suicide and mental health awareness.

MaxiTRANS also conducted a company-wide campaign for its employees, which included staff making gold coin donations, being encouraged to dress in yellow and internal events at every company site to promote discussion around mental health awareness.

Mr Jenskins said that mental health forms a part of its safety program, MaxiSAFE.

"MaxiSAFE benefits our staff and customers," he said.

"We place significant emphasis on safety in our own manufacturing and service facilities as well as designing our products for safe operation by owners and operators. While the job is certainly not done as we work towards our goal of zero injuries every day, another significant aspect of safety is mental wellbeing.

"Most importantly, we should not limit suicide prevention to one day a year. If you see someone struggling, at any time, ask them 'R U OK?'"

If you or someone you know is in need of crisis or suicide prevention support, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit www.lifeline.org.au/gethelp.

MaxiTRANS ask, R U OK?

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