A Bendigo small business is hoping its chocolate will help start a conversation about mental health and suicide prevention to promote R U OK Day?
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The Indulge Fine Belgian Chocolates team have been busy making extra chocolate samples for customers, in the hope it will allow people to reconnect.
Chocolatier and owner Hayley Tibbbett said her business wants to offer their ear to people who feel disconnected.
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"Chocolate is a good conversation starter and always makes you feel better," Ms Tibbett said.
The focus of today's R U OK Day? is to build confidence and increase people's skills, so they know how to navigate a conversation with someone who might be struggling.
From 5.30am Thursday, businesses in Castlemaine will be serving free coffees and egg and bacon rolls, while offering information about looking after yourself and others, thanks to an initiative by Hope Assistance Local Tradies.
Top Shop, Rick's Coffee Cart and Das Kaffeehaus will be taking part, with exact times available on the HALT Facebook page.
Mount Alexander Shire have also made a donation of R U OK Day? Kit Kat chocolates to local businesses to bring awareness to the cause, which coincides with World Suicide Prevention Day.
A list of businesses where you can support the cause are listed below:
- 5.30am to 6.30am, Top Shop, Castlemaine
- 6.30am to 7.30am, Rick's Coffee Cart, at the front of The Snip barber shop
- 7.30am to 8.30am, Top Shop, Castlemaine
- 9am to 10am, Das Kaffeehaus, The Mill, Castlemaine
R U OK? chief executive Katherine Newton said 2020 has been challenging for everyone.
"Time is one of the most valuable things we can share with people we care about," Ms Newton said.
"You don't have to be an expert to keep the conversation going if you familiarise yourself with what to say after hearing 'No, I'm not OK'."
For support, contact Lifeline 13 11 14, Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800, Suicide Call Back Service, 1300 659 467, Mensline Australia 1300 78 9978, Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636.