MinRes becomes first WA resources company to deploy in-house mental health services
Mineral Resources (ASX: MIN) has become the first resources company in WA to deploy a team of in-house mental health counsellors to its mines across the State.
This investment ensures that all MinRes employees — including its 7500 fly in, fly out (FIFO) staff — have the opportunity to talk about mental health and receive support when needed.
The Mind Matters team features seven highly qualified mental health clinicians, each designated to work at one of MinRes’ sites with a roving counsellor supporting client sites.
Counsellors work a 4:3 on-site roster and a 4:3 Perth roster to provide support to both remote and in-house MinRes staff.
All of the mental health professionals are available for individual consultations and welfare checks in person or over the phone, plus they also facilitate education sessions, pre-start presentations and group activities.
Counsellors will work closely with on-site health and wellbeing advisors, emergency service officers, medics and health and safety officers.
MinRes’ existing external employee assistance program will continue to provide confidential crisis management, counselling and mental health support as needed.
Mineral Resources head of mental health and psychologist Chris Harris says this model ensures employees can connect and talk with professionals about their mental health and access support when needed.
“MinRes is committed to supporting our FIFO workforce, helping to tackle the unique challenges they face and reducing the stigma often associated with mental health,” he said.
“We consider mental health as important as physical health and have embedded programs that encourage a culture where it is spoken about openly.
“Our industry-first, site-based mental health service ensures everyone at MinRes can easily access personal and consistent mental health support.
“The goal is to empower people to champion their own mental health and physical wellbeing, value the importance of self-care and build capacity and resilience.”
Mineral Resources general manager health and wellbeing Jon Haines said the model will provide consistent and personal support for all staff.
“This new model and influx of expertise is a truly exciting opportunity and will complement the great work already being undertaken at MinRes,” he said.
“The expanded mental health team will provide a personal and consistent point of support at each of our sites, working closely with our internal psychological support team to deliver mental health education programs.”