The NSW Government wants to enhance mental health support for hospitality workers.

A one-time contribution of $250,000 from the NSW Government will assist the Raising the Bar Foundation in the creation and implementation of The Barstool Project. 

This initiative is a tailored mental health training package designed specifically for hospitality and tourism employees in NSW. 

The primary goal is to reach 10,000 employees statewide, boosting education and awareness regarding mental health and wellbeing issues prevalent in these industries.

Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast, Ryan Park, expressed strong support for the initiative, acknowledging the proactive efforts of the Raising the Bar Foundation team.

“I’m really impressed by the proactive work Lachlan, Daniel and the Raising the Bar Foundation team are doing to increase mental health support and driving a cultural shift in the hospitality industry,” Park stated. 

Park emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts between the government and industry leaders. 

“It highlights the need for a concerted effort from the NSW Government and industry leaders like the Raising the Bar Foundation to ensure that people are equipped to stay mentally healthy and that they feel comfortable reaching out for help if they are struggling,” he said. 

Lachlan Stevens, Chairperson of the Raising the Bar Foundation, has thanked the NSW Government for its support. 

“I’m very grateful the NSW Government is supporting our organisation’s goals to increase mental health support across the hospitality and tourism industry,” Stevens said. 

“Our mission is to create safer, healthier environments within hospitality venues for employees, employers and patrons, with an aim to shift the culture of these establishments back to human connection and community.”

Daniel Chin, General Manager of the Raising the Bar Foundation, also welcomed the government’s support.

“The support from the NSW Government is incredibly welcome and will expand our ability to empower individuals to understand and manage their mental health effectively,” Chin said. “Raising the Bar Foundation is about leading the charge in eradicating the stigma around mental health and this contribution will help a great deal.”