From chefs creating delicious dishes to bartenders mixing magic late into the night, hospitality workers are the heartbeat of our city’s dining scene. But behind the smiles and hardworking service, the industry is tough, and sometimes those who care for us need someone to care for them.
R U OK? Is urging the hospitality industry and everyday Australians to remember that words and conversations are powerful at their core. By asking ‘R U OK?’ any day, one can spark meaningful conversations that truly change lives. Yet the latest research shows that although three in four Australians support asking the question, many hold back, afraid of saying the wrong thing and invading someone’s privacy. However, the truth? Most people (88%) feel grateful when someone checks in.
For the hospitality sector, the industry can get challenging. Community ambassador Tyler Pockran, a commercial cookery apprentice, exclaims “Community is what really holds everybody together in the kitchen. Hospitality is a slog, but it’s made a lot easier if you have each other’s backs and you can have a laugh while working too.”
After Tyler’s reminder of the importance of community, R U OK? CEO Katherine Newton reinforces the message that it’s not about having the perfect words — it’s about showing up.“R U OK?Day, our National Day of Action, is a powerful reminder, but it’s what we do regularly that truly makes a difference.” She further states “You don’t need to be an expert to ask someone if they’re OK, and you don’t have to do it alone. It’s natural to feel nervous, but that’s why R U OK? is here.”
Research shows that people who engage with R U OK? are six times more likely to ask what’s troubling someone, listen with empathy, and encourage them to seek support. They’re also more likely to check in regularly with those they care about.
Because at the end of the day, good food and drink fill the stomach — but genuine conversation can change a life, any day of the year.
Want to ask someone if they’re okay and don’t know where to start? Visit ruok.org.au for free tools, tips and resources.
📞 Lifeline: 13 11 14 | Text: 0477 13 11 14 | Chat: lifeline.org.au
📞 MensLine: 1300 78 99 78 | mensline.org.au
📞 13YARN (for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples): 13 92 76 | 13yarn.org.au