Two fully booked Mental Health Support Skills workshops in Leeton have received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with participants reporting greater knowledge and confidence to respond to people experiencing mental health challenges.

The free workshops gave people practical skills they can use every day, from recognising when someone may be struggling, to starting a conversation and helping them connect with the right care.

The workshops were designed for the wider community, recognising that people don’t need to be mental health professionals to play an important role in helping those around them.

A teacher, coach, colleague, community worker or local business owner may be the first to notice that someone is struggling. Knowing how to start a conversation and connect someone with the right support can make a real difference.

Feedback showed that 96 per cent of respondents improved their understanding of mental health, while 96 per cent also reported a better understanding of the services available in Leeton.

Participants also reported greater confidence in finding information or help for themselves, a family member, friend or colleague.

The workshops were delivered by the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (RAMHP) and the Rotary Club of Leeton, in partnership with the local Collaborative Care project.

Leeton Collaborative Care Project Officer, Maryann Iannelli said the response to the first workshop was overwhelming, with places filling quickly and prompting a second session to meet community demand.

“This highlights the importance of providing initiatives that genuinely respond to local needs,” Maryann said.

“We are grateful to partner with RAMHP and the Rotary Club of Leeton, whose support has enabled us to deliver a meaningful workshop and connect with an engaged local audience,” she said.

Brian Munro, Secretary 2026-27, Rotary Club of Leeton said:

“The Rotary Club of Leeton is honoured to be able to share the promotion of the work in engaging the community with the ability to recognise mental health issues in our friends, families and colleagues. Rotary International has a responsibility to foster a global environment in which individuals not only have access to support and care but also thrive emotionally, lead fulfilling lives, and contribute meaningfully to society.”

Mental health has been identified as a priority by the Leeton community through the Collaborative Care project, with work focused on improving access to information, making local services easier to navigate and strengthening connections across the community.

The Mental Health Support Skills workshops are one example of this work, building practical skills and confidence while increasing awareness of local services and where to turn for help.

The Collaborative Care Program is facilitated by RDN Health in partnership with the NSW Ministry of Health, local health providers, and community organisations.