The Great Aussie Pub.
It’s a place where mates meet, drinks are drunk and friendships are forged. But its also a place where people go to escape their problems – and sometimes the escape itself can become an addiction. That addiction alone can become dangerous. Were you aware that gambling addicts are more likely to be found at a pub than anywhere else? Were you aware that there are more people dependent on alcohol found in pubs more than anywhere else? And the stats tell us that when 9 people suicide everyday, up to 69% of them have alcohol in their system (Cherpitel, Borges and Wilcox) and 10% have a gambling issue (Suicide Prevention Australia Gambling Report 2022). This means pubs, family and friends all have responsibilities. And wouldn't you agree we need to have responsibilities? I liken the scenario to my favourite Dad pub joke... an empty coke can walks into a pub and asks for a beer. The bartender looks him up and down and says “sorry mate, I can see you’re already drunk”. What I’m saying is, we as a community need to look at things differently. That's why our Great Aussie Pubs are the hubs. They are the keeper and creator of community. The underlying issue is that frontline staff could play a role to help people doing it tough. Which is where the Pub Whisperer Support Over Suicide prevention training comes in. Says one publican who has already come on board: "Pubs are part of the community and having a gamble or having a drink can actually be dangerous when done to excess. By doing The Pub Whisperer course and being part of that community we want to be in a position where people are safe if they choose to do that in excess and are not thinking clearly." Being The Pub Whisperer in your bar empowers you to navigate a TRICKY conversation. TRICKY standing for – trusted, respected, integrity, confidentiality, kindness and your good self – all key components of a Pub Whisperer. It’s often a quiet conversation too – which is where the Pub Whisperer name comes in. Because these are silent deaths in the community. Can you imagine being a Pub Whisperer, being all you can be, knowing you saved a life? Are you interested in creating better community? Giving your customers the best experience possible? To quench not only their thirst for liquid but thirst for community, friendship and that soul kind of feeling? It could be a kind heart, a kindred soul or just someone they needed to see that day. No intention of needing to drown one's sorrows. Because you have helped them get to a place of safety? So lets make sure that instead of silent deaths, people are heard. Equip your staff to manage these TRICKY conversations and give them practical ways to respond to conversations that may pop up. Because every pub needs a Pub Whisperer: providing quiet conversations, preventing silent deaths. There's a role for everyone to play. The Pub Whisperer is supported by Rotary. Visit www.thepubwhisperer.com for more.
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AuthorJono Hart is an award-winning print journalist, host, radio announcer and speaker. Archives
September 2023
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