Collaborating with HHTS, R U OK? and Kick Start to support mental health

In FY22, Charter Hall partnered with Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds (HHTS), a mental health and wellbeing organisation that operates specifically in the road transport, warehousing and logistics industries.

Those working in these industries face unique challenges such as tight deadlines, long hours, shift work and isolation. In a recent report released by SuperFriend, it was revealed that 44.8 percent of workers experience a mental health condition, with 38.2 percent of those workers saying that their workplace caused the condition or made it worse.

A recent study from Monash University also revelated that 48 percent of truck drivers have had a mental health condition in the past 12 months.

It’s important in these circumstances to be able to check on people’s well-being and to be able to speak openly with fellow workers to help ensure that they feel connected and supported.

As an extension of this partnership, Charter Hall embraced a collaboration between HHTS and R U OK?, participating in the inaugural R U OK? in Trucks & Sheds Day of Action. The day created conversations and partnerships to ensure our own tenant customers feel supported at work.

Through this initiative we hosted morning teas and lunches across the country for 27 of our Industrial & Logistics tenant customers. The aim of these events was for workers to take time out and start conversations with each other.

Charter Hall’s community partner, Kick Start, provided the catering for these events. By engaging Kick Start, we supported their traineeship program, which provides young people with valuable qualifications and employment.

“Charter Hall’s support has been invaluable, providing us with the means to expand our program and help even more young people gain meaningful employment and their Certificate III in Hospitality,” explains Kick Start General Manager Paul Borghetti. “These young people are now empowered, with the qualifications, practical skills and support to join the workforce. Since partnering with Charter Hall, 22 young people have graduated with another 10 trainees currently being supported by the program. We are also operating four onsite cafes at Charter Hall assets.”

This was a unique opportunity for Charter Hall to partner with three community organisations to support our tenant customers and local communities.