Tees to start conversations

THIS month, Haymes Paint Shop staff are aiming to raise awareness of the mental health support available to tradespeople.

For a second year, the business will sell special t-shirts for $5 each on Thursdays in October, with all profits directed to mental health charity, This is A Conversation Starter, or TIACS.

“We’re delighted to bring back T-shirt Thursday,” said Haymes Paint Shop general manager David McCormack.

“The support we received when T-shirt Thursday launched last year was overwhelming.

“While it was great to receive such a strong reception, there is clearly a need to continue encouraging conversations around mental health among tradies.

“We are proud to help shine a light on the important services TIACS provides to the tradie community.”

After losing a friend to suicide eight years ago, Ed Ross and Dan Allen founded TIACS which not a crisis support line, but a free text and call service aiming to link people to counselling help.

“The support from Haymes Paint Shops has helped us assist so many people,” Mr Ross said. “We can’t thank them enough for partnering with us again this year.”

Mr Allen said all funds from the t-shirt sales will boost the support they provide.

“We’d love everyone to buy an awesome t-shirt and help us continue supporting tradies and their loved ones,” he said.

If you or someone you know needs mental health support, visit beyondblue.org.au or call their 24/7 hotline on 1300 22 4636. You can also visit lifeline.org.au or call them on 13 11 14. Help for young people is available at kidshelpline.com.au or by calling them on 1800 55 1800.