MHCC ACT pledges to a united consistent voice on mental health in the ACT

The Mental Health Community Coalition ACT (MHCC ACT) is the latest organisation to sign the National Communications Charter (The Charter), formally demonstrating their commitment to how the organisation will talk about mental health, wellbeing and suicide, as well as improve how these issues are responded to across the community.

Acting Chief Executive Officer, Leith Felton-Taylor states that “In signing The Charter we are guiding the community mental health sector toward coordinated and consistent messaging about mental health and suicide prevention. This is a key factor in reducing stigma and creating an inclusive culture.”

Ms Felton-Taylor goes on to say, “As the community mental health peak body for the ACT we are in a position to act in the best interest of our member organisations, and the people in the community for whom they support.”

The Charter provides an opportunity for governments, organisations, community groups and individuals to play a role in reducing stigma around mental ill-health and suicide, while also promoting help-seeking behaviour through its guiding principles and messages.

Everymind Suicide Prevention Project Lead, Amanda McAtamney states “By signing The Charter, organisations and individuals are agreeing to communicate in ways that are safe and actively work to increase help-seeking behaviour, reduce stigma and encourage collaboration.”

MHCC ACT, together with Life in Mind, encourages individuals, community organisations, businesses, and government agencies to show their support and commitment to safer, more inclusive communication by signing up to The Charter.