Change The Narrative

If you want to know how to recognise when someone is struggling with their mental health and how you can safely support them. Register through the Born This Way Foundation for their online Be There Certificate.

https://bornthisway.foundation/current-programs/be-there-certificate/ 

You don't need to be an expert, just be a good friend and a great listener. If you feel something is not quite right, reach out and start the conversation.

Ask R U OK? Listen, encourage action and check in. 

Visit https://www.ruok.org.au/  for more information and resources that can help you have the conversation with your family and friends, at your school or in your workplace.

Helping a person who is homeless can seem difficult, as there are many issues that the person experiencing homelessness may be facing.

The first thing to remember is that people who are homeless are regular people – mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, friends, people who’ve served in the armed forces, people who’ve worked, held down jobs, and paid taxes. For some reason, hard times have come their way, and they don’t have secure and stable housing.

Start with some simple steps to change the way we all see homeless people – as people. The first one is to acknowledge when someone speaks to you. Many homeless people are ignored. If someone asks you for help, consider if you can help or not, even if it’s to buy a drink or food. If you can’t, politely say you’re not able to. Many homeless people appreciate the simple act of being spoken to.

If you have a conversation with a homeless person, you can ask their name. Many homeless people do not get to hear their name. Engaging in some small talk or simple hello can help people facing homelessness feel seen and less isolated.

If you regularly see a person who is homeless, you can contact your local government office and ask what you should do. Every City/Shire has contacts with organisations that provide support to people doing it tough by providing non-perishable food, phone cards, socks and beanies - the list goes on. 

Search your location and see what services are available in your area in case you meet someone who needs assistance.  You may even consider donating your time, money or goods.