Vikings Group Launch Dedicated Support Room
Vikings Group has launched it’s dedicated support room–a space that provides access to confidential Lifeline support and counselling for people dealing with a range of wellbeing issues at it’s Erindale Vikings Club.
The room provides a quiet space where users can access Lifeline support, as well as Lifeline support packs and a fridge with cold non-alcoholic beverages.
Vikings Group CEO Anthony Hill says the room is an opportunity for the Group to provide wider support to its members, ensuring people can get help from trained professionals in a safe and private space.
“It’s important for us to help our members in a practical way in all that we do, and we understand our role is ongoing in helping people address wellbeing issues,” Anthony says.
Lifeline Canberra CEO Carrie Leeson, who attended the opening, says it’s not only a great space to help Vikings Group members with personal issues, but also a chance to highlight the prominence of mental health in the ACT.
“Any avenue to reach and support people who may be facing wellbeing issues is imperative, we know that one of the things that can deter people from contacting Lifeline is not having access to a quiet space where they can speak freely without anyone hearing,” Carrie says.
“Not only will this room provide that quiet space, but we hope by it being so accessible to the Vikings Group membership it will also enable us to reach people in the early stages when issues arise, so that support is quickly available.
“I congratulate Vikings Group on executing this initiative and being part of the ongoing solution,” she says.
The dedicated support room is one of a number of initiatives to be implemented as part of Vikings Group Harm Minimisation Program which offers mental health and wellbeing support to patrons and staff.
As part of the harm minimisation program Vikings Group staff undergo training from Lifeline Canberra to effectively support and monitor its membership.
Member for Brindabella, Joy Burch MLA who also attended the opening, says it is excellent to see the Vikings Group recognising the need for a support space for people who may be experiencing difficulties.
“It’s fantastic to be able to launch this dedicated support room to care for those in need. Be it through counselling, a Lifeline support pack, or just a quiet and safe space they can visit.
“I also want to acknowledge the important work that Lifeline do and thank them for their contribution to the community.
“I congratulate the Vikings Group on creating this space as part of their recent refurbishments and in line with their harm minimisation strategies,” Ms Burch says.