Today I tabled the following Community Recognition Statement about the Samaritans Foundation ARAFMI Wellness Walk:



I was delighted to be invited to join the Samaritans Foundation ARAFMI Wellness Walk last Saturday, 19th October.

It was a great opportunity to meet carers and friends of people in our local community who live with mental illness, as well as many people who are living with mental health illness.

The first annual Wellness Walk was held in 2005 and this year over 800 participants walked the 1.5 km route. The Wellness Walk raises awareness of the impact of mental health in our community.

The day reminded me that mental illness can have a ripple effect on families, creating tension, uncertainty and significant changes in how people live their lives. There is often little training or support for families and friends, and their personal needs and mental health can be sometimes be overlooked.

The good news is that there is help and support available, and I commend the work of the Samaritans Foundation and other organisations and agencies that are active in the Hunter region.