Debit card system eftpos today has announced a supporting partnership of Beyond Blue, as part of a $200,000 multi-year engagement encouraging all Australians to achieve their best possible mental health.
The partnership will focus on funding and providing access to the Beyond Blue Support Service and aims to raise awareness about the link between financial and mental health, particularly for small businesses and young people.
Research from the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources last year shows two thirds of small business owners say the pandemic has negatively impacted their mental health, a figure that has doubled since prior to the pandemic.
Even more worryingly is that small business operators support others, such as their family and staff, rather than tending to their own needs when they need support themselves.
Through the partnership with Beyond Blue, eftpos will be encouraging consumers and small business owners to take steps and seek support to improve their overall mental health and wellbeing, particularly during these difficult times.
“With disruptions to the ways we live, learn and work, we have limited access to the usual supports and coping mechanisms that help keep us well,” says eftpos CEO Stephen Benton says.
Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman thanked eftpos for its support, “especially at a time when millions of people are experiencing the effects of the pandemic, including the impact on many people’s financial wellbeing”.
“Contacts to Beyond Blue’s support services are up 30 per cent on pre-pandemic levels, so we are extremely grateful to eftpos for supporting us so we can keep answering every call and online chat,” he says.
Get support
Beyond Blue Support Service: 1300 22 4636 or beyondblue.org.au/get-support
Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service: 1800 512 348 or coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au
NewAccess Support for Small Business Owners: beyondblue.org.au/get-support/newaccess