Running a business entails a myriad of concerns and anxieties, particularly in recent years when various industries have been confronted with new and unique challenges. Business owners and operators have found themselves navigating uncharted territories, which has prompted the need for assistance in areas such as mental health, financial needs, and other essential requirements. Seeking help can be daunting, yet it is vital. For truck operators, obtaining mental health support and resources has become more accessible.
The Healthy Heads in Trucks and Sheds program has taken a significant step by launching a roadshow set to commence in March. This roadshow will encompass 18 events throughout 2022, providing truck operators with valuable resources and support for their mental well-being.
The transport sector has identified mental health as a prominent issue, owing to factors such as lengthy working hours, isolation, pressures tied to deadlines and schedules, and the constant need to stay vigilant. These factors collectively contribute to the heightened vulnerability of operators' mental health.
The Healthy Heads in Truck and Sheds (HHTS) Foundation was established to address prevention and an understanding of the issues around mental health which are specific to logistics and road transport industries.
The aim is to ‘build a psychologically safe, healthy and thriving working environment’ for both drivers and logistics centre staff and other workers in the industry. While a very personal issue, mental health can have negative impacts on both the individual and the productivity of the business operation. For sole traders and owner operators these two are closely entwined and addressing issues at a personal level can deliver wide-ranging and longer-lasting benefits and outcomes for the business.
The three pillars of the Foundation are:
- Training: increasing the number of people at transport and at logistic facilities that are trained in dealing with mental health.
- Standards: to standardise policies and regulation at facilities.
- Wellbeing: to help individuals to be healthier through diet and from the perspective of mental health.
The Foundation has garnered significant support from notable founding partners such as Linfox, Australia Post, Woolworths, Finemore, and Toll. This essential initiative's development was made possible through backing from the Federal Government and the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator.
Taking to the Road
To make its resources more accessible and reach a wider audience, HHTS is embarking on a nationwide roadshow in 2022. This outreach program will be facilitated using a medium-rigid DAF LF, a collaborative effort between the Australian Trucking Association, PACCAR, and dealers.
Commencing in March, the roadshow will span 18 events across the country. Naomi Frauenfelder, CEO of HHTS, emphasized that this initiative will enable the organization to connect with individuals who might not otherwise have access to the necessary resources and tools to address their mental health.
Promoting better mental health and overall well-being in the industry is a priority for NHVR (National Heavy Vehicle Regulator), deemed crucial for the safety of all road users, as highlighted by CEO Sal Petroccitto.
BP has also joined this initiative, offering access to more than 500 of its sites for the HHTS Roadshow. Operators can initially engage with the HHTS Roadshow at BP locations in Marulan, Albury, and Gundagai from March onwards. It's important to note that access to these resources and events is free and open to everyone within the sector.
The resources and tools available through the HHTS Roadshow include encouraging use of the Healthy Heads app and the team will be distributing handbooks with practical tips on wellbeing and mental health. Stay across the schedule of 2022 events to see where and when you can connect with HHTS.
Specialist Assistance with Finance Worries
HHTS places a spotlight on the risk factors that can negatively impact mental health within the trucking and transport sector. Long hours, isolation, and demanding schedules are known stressors in this industry. Moreover, financial concerns, particularly for owner-operators, can significantly contribute to poor mental health. The combination of escalating costs and narrow profit margins intensifies the pressure on overall profitability, thus exacerbating mental well-being and overall health. If these worries accumulate, the situation can further deteriorate.
Jade Truck Loans provides comprehensive loan divisions to assist truck buyers ease many of the concerns around truck finance. With our professional expertise and access to a wide range of lenders, we can facilitate a streamlined truck finance process.
Worries for operators who have had loan applications rejected based on lack of financial documentation can utilise our services for low docs truck loans. Those with Truck Finance For Bad Credit & Poor Credit have access to non-bank lenders that may be in a position to offer cost-effective workable loan solutions.
For truck owners who are currently grappling with financial concerns, exploring the option of refinancing their truck loan could offer a beneficial way to alleviate ongoing expenses. Our services cater to all types of businesses, and our consultants are dedicated to prioritizing our customers' best interests.
Addressing and preventing mental health issues holds immense significance for both individual well-being and business prosperity. Operators are strongly encouraged to seek support and tap into the available resources to effectively manage their mental health. If you're navigating the challenges of the industry and looking for tailored financial solutions, including Commercial Heavy Vehicle & Truck Loans, remember that prioritizing mental well-being can contribute to a more holistic approach to success.
Contact Jade Truck Loans on 1300 000 003 to discuss how we can ease financial worries.
DISCLAIMER: THIS INFORMATION IS ISSUED PURELY FOR THE PURPOSE OF GENERAL INFORMATION PROVISION. IT IS NOT TO BE TAKEN AS THE ONLY SOURCE OF INFORMATION FOR BASING FINANCIAL DECISION-MAKING. THOSE REQUIRING FINANCIAL GUIDANCE AND ADVICE SHOULD CONSULT WITH THEIR FINANCIAL CONSULTANT OR ADVISOR. NO LIABILITY IS ACCEPTED FOR ANY MISREPRESENTATION OF POLICIES, DATA OR ERRORS IN THIS CONTENT.
