Hey Mate

Who we are

Hey Mate is a forward-thinking social enterprise committed to strengthening mental health and wellbeing within the creative industries and wider community. We work with individuals, communities, and organisations to deliver tailored mental health support, including education, advocacy, and both in-person and online therapeutic services. Through wellbeing workshops, training, and one-on-one support, we equip people to navigate the unique demands of creative and community work with resilience and confidence. By partnering with workplaces, arts organisations, and community groups, we’re building environments where individuals can flourish creatively and personally. At Hey Mate, we believe in a holistic approach to mental wellbeing, bridging arts and health to make meaningful support accessible, especially in regional areas.

Mission:
At Hey Mate, our mission is to enhance mental health and wellbeing within the creative industries and broader community. We strive to empower individuals and organisations through accessible, tailored support that fosters resilience, creativity, and connection.

Core Values:

• Compassion: We believe in providing empathetic and understanding support to everyone we serve, recognising the unique challenges faced by creatives.
• Collaboration: We foster partnerships with individuals, communities, and organisations to create a network of support that amplifies impact.
• Inclusivity: We are committed to making mental health resources accessible to all, prioritising the needs of underrepresented and regional communities.
• Empowerment: We equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to navigate their mental health journeys, fostering independence and resilience.

Key Team Members:

• Aimee Davies, Founder and Managing Director: With over 15 years of experience in the arts, health, and social impact sectors, Aimee leads with vision and compassion, driving Hey Mate's mission forward.
• Clinical Practitioners with clinical skill and creative industry experience.

Together, our team is dedicated to creating positive change at the intersection of arts and mental health, making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.

What we do

At Hey Mate, we provide a comprehensive range of core services designed to enhance mental health and wellbeing for individuals, communities, and organisations within the creative industries. Our offerings include:

Core Services:

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): We offer tailored EAP solutions that provide confidential support for employees facing personal or work-related challenges. This program includes access to mental health professionals, counselling services, and resources aimed at improving overall employee wellbeing.
• On-Site Wellbeing Officer Roles: We place qualified wellbeing officers within organisations to provide direct support to employees. These officers are trained to offer immediate assistance, facilitate workshops, and foster a culture of mental health awareness and resilience within the workplace.
• Wellbeing Projects: We design and implement targeted wellbeing projects that address specific needs within communities and organisations. These projects may include mental health awareness campaigns, creative workshops, and community events aimed at promoting mental wellness.
• Wellbeing Workshops: Our interactive workshops cover a variety of topics, including stress management, burnout prevention, and coping strategies. These sessions equip participants with practical tools to enhance their mental health and navigate the unique pressures of the creative industries.
• Advocacy and Education: We advocate for mental health awareness within the creative sector, providing educational resources, training sessions, and workshops to help organisations cultivate supportive environments for their members.
• Lived Experience Workforce Program (LEWP): We facilitate the integration of lived experience professionals into mental health support roles, recognising the value of those who have personally navigated mental health challenges. This program aims to enhance service delivery and ensure that support is informed by real-life experiences.

Impact Areas:

• Mental Health Awareness: Increasing understanding of mental health issues within the creative industries and promoting a culture of openness.
• Resilience Building: Empowering individuals with the skills and knowledge to manage stress and enhance overall wellbeing.
• Community Connection: Strengthening networks of support among creatives and organisations to promote collaboration and shared experiences.
  
  Key Outcomes:

• Improved mental health outcomes for participants, leading to greater creativity and productivity.
• Increased capacity for organisations to support their members’ mental health needs through dedicated EAP and onsite wellbeing officers.
• Enhanced community connections and resources, fostering a culture of wellbeing within the creative sector.
• Greater representation of lived experience in mental health support, leading to more relatable and effective services.

Through our specialised approach, Hey Mate is committed to driving positive change and ensuring that mental health support is integral to the creative journey.