Question 1

What is the Connect · Strengthen · Protect system?

Accepted Answer

Connect · Strengthen · Protect is a coordinated workplace wellbeing system that integrates prevention, peer connection, governance, and crisis response into one clear framework.
 It supports people early, reduces escalation, and helps organisations meet their duty of care in a sustainable way.

Question 2

Why do workplaces need a layered wellbeing approach?

Accepted Answer

Relying on a single solution — such as training alone or EAP alone — often leads to missed early warning signs, overburdened support staff, or late intervention.
This system ensures:
 • Everyday wellbeing is supported early
 • Peer supporters are protected and not over-extended
 • Escalation is clear and appropriate
 • Governance and WHS confidence are strengthened

Question 3

What does “Connect” mean?

Accepted Answer

Connect refers to confidential, non-clinical peer support enabled through a secure peer support platform powered by ByMindSide.
It allows employees to talk with trained peers when they need connection — before issues escalate.

Question 4

Is peer support confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Peer support conversations are confidential and non-clinical.
 • Individual conversations are not shared with managers or the organisation
 • No personal disclosures are reported
 • Only de-identified, aggregated insights are used to understand workplace trends
 • The platform does not diagnose, treat, or replace clinical care

Question 5

How are peer supporters protected from burnout?

Accepted Answer

The platform is designed to protect peer supporters by:
 • Monitoring workload and exposure
 • Flagging early signs of burnout or secondary trauma
 • Supporting supervision and coordinator oversight
 • Reinforcing clear boundaries and ethical practice
This prevents peer support from becoming emotionally unsafe or personality-dependent.

Question 6

What does “Strengthen” mean?

Accepted Answer

Strengthen refers to building everyday wellbeing capability and culture through Resilience First Aid (RFA).
RFA helps teams:
 • Notice early signs of strain
 • Have safe, human conversations
 • Reduce stigma
 • Prevent burnout before escalation
It is designed for all staff, not just support roles.

Question 7

How is this different from Mental Health First Aid (MHFA)?

Accepted Answer

This system does not replace Mental Health First Aid — it protects it.
 • RFA supports prevention and everyday wellbeing
 • Peer support offers early, non-clinical connection
 • Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) remains the formal escalation and safety net
MHFA is activated when:
 • Distress becomes significant
 • Risk to safety is identified
 • Professional or clinical referral is required
This ensures MHFA is used when it matters most, not for everyday stress.

Question 8

What role does Our Minds at Work (OMAW) play?

Accepted Answer

Our Minds at Work (OMAW) acts as the independent wellbeing administrator for the system.
OMAW does not replace HR, WHS, or leadership. Instead, OMAW provides:
 • Ethical administration of the peer support platform
 • Clear boundaries between peer support, MHFA, and clinical services
 • Support with escalation decisions
 • Psychosocial risk insights and prevention recommendations

Question 9

What information does the organisation receive?

Accepted Answer

The organisation receives de-identified, aggregated insights only, such as:
 • Common psychosocial hazard themes (e.g. workload, change fatigue)
 • Emerging trends over time
 • Practical, prevention-focused recommendations
This supports early action on systems and workload — not monitoring individuals.

Question 10

Does this help meet WHS and psychosocial risk obligations?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The system supports:
 • Early identification of psychosocial risks
 • Clear escalation pathways
 • Evidence of prevention, not just response
 • Stronger governance and oversight
It aligns with expectations for psychological health and safety, not just crisis management.

Question 11

Is this a replacement for EAP or clinical services?

Accepted Answer

No. This system complements existing supports.
 • Peer support provides connection
 • RFA strengthens everyday wellbeing
 • MHFA supports escalation
 • EAP and clinical services remain available when professional care is needed
Each layer has a clear role.

Question 12

Who is this system suitable for?

Accepted Answer

This approach suits:
 • Organisations seeking prevention, not just response
 • Workplaces with peer support or MHFA already in place
 • Leaders wanting clearer governance and role protection
 • Teams committed to people-first wellbeing

Question 13

What makes this approach different?

Accepted Answer

This is not duplication — it is completion.
Resilience First Aid reduces demand.
 Peer support catches people early.
 OMAW provides governance and insight.
 Mental Health First Aid protects when it really matters.

Question 14

What Training Does Our Minds At Work (OMAW) Offer?

Accepted Answer

Our Minds At Work (OMAW) delivers evidence-based training designed to build confidence, strengthen capability, and support healthier, safer workplaces. Our training programs are practical, people-centred, and aligned with best practice in psychosocial risk, mental health, and organisational wellbeing.
Core training offerings include:
1. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA)
Globally recognised training that teaches individuals how to recognise and respond to signs of mental health challenges.
Practical, confidence-building skills for supporting colleagues, team members, family and friends.
2. Mindful Champions® Workplace Training
Whole-of-workplace wellbeing training focused on mental health, resilience, stress management, and proactive psychological safety.
Suitable for individuals, teams, and leaders.
3. Leadership & Manager Wellbeing Training
Workshops and coaching tailored for leaders and managers.
Focus on how to create psychologically safe environments, support teams, and manage wellbeing challenges.
4. Workshops & Short Courses
Topic-specific workshops on things like stress, burnout, resilience, workplace culture and psychosocial risk.
Designed for teams and organisations seeking targeted learning and practical tools.
5. Customised Training Solutions
Bespoke programs tailored to your organisation’s culture, needs and wellbeing goals.
Can include blended learning, group facilitation, and industry-specific content.

Question 15

What is Mental Health First Aid?

Accepted Answer

Mental Health First Aid is a training program that teaches individuals how to assist someone who is developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. The training helps you recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health issues and provides guidance on how to offer initial support and direct the person to appropriate professional help.

Question 16

How can I register for a training session?

Accepted Answer

You can register for a training session by visiting our website and navigating to the 'Training' section. There, you will find a list of available sessions and a registration form.