Bunnings, MATES in Construction raise $500K for mental health

The Bunnings Trade and MATES in Construction hoodies have raised $500,000 in funds for mental health and suicide prevention. Over the past two years, tradies and builders across Australia, alongside Bunnings Trade, have raised a total of $1 million in funds towards the work of MATES in Construction to support mental health and suicide prevention initiatives.

Chris Lockwood, MATES National CEO, said the partnership with Bunnings Trade is important, as it enables MATES to engage directly with construction and trade workers to promote awareness of mental health and suicide prevention. Lockwood added that the proceeds from hoodie sales are essential for MATES to expand and offer support to the most vulnerable individuals in the industry.

“We have genuinely appreciated collaborating with the Bunnings Trade team, engaging with customers at the Bunnings Trade Breakfast BBQs during the hoodie launch. The positive response and active interest from Bunnings Trade customers in learning more about MATES have been remarkable, cementing our commitment to enhancing the mental health and wellbeing of workers within the industry,” Lockwood said.

Rod Caust, General Manager of Bunnings Trade, said the work MATES does for mental health and suicide prevention plays an important role for the industry, adding that it was incredible to see the community response, quickly selling out of hoodies for the second year running.

“Every hoodie sold goes directly to supporting MATES and we’re grateful to our customers for their overwhelming support through purchasing hoodies, attending trade BBQs and having conversations with a mate,” Caust said.

If you are affected by any of the issues discussed in this article, The MATES in Construction Helpline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 1300 642 111 or visit https://mates.org.au. Lifeline has a 24/7 crisis support service that can help. Call 13 11 14.

Image credit: iStock.com/SaintM Photos