FAQs

What Is A Social Enterprise?

We believe in the power of the marketplace to solve the most pressing social problems. We believe in the power of purpose and profit. So Puka Up has been set up as a social enterprise. AKA a commercially viable business model designed to serve the community.

I Want To Help Puka Up In Their Mission To End Suicide. Can I Raise Funds For Puka Up?

PukaUp is not a charity or non-for-profit business BUT you can still donate or fundraise. We do not have Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status or Non Government Organisation (NGO) status which means there is no tax benefit for donations or fundraising, nor can we issue you with a tax receipt.We can and do accept donations and fundraising amounts from passionate people who believe in our mission and want to support our cause with financial support. If you are interested in creating a Puka Up fundraiser or you want to donate, please contact info@pukaup.com.

We Want To Start The Conversation. Can My Community Book Wayne Or Any Of The Puka Up Ambassadors For A Mental Wellbeing Conversation/Keynote? What Does A Presentation By Puka Up Include?

Absolutely! You can book Wayne or one of our Puka Up Ambassadors to come to your community and facilitate an authentic wellbeing conversation. Energetic, enthusiastic, fun, honest and highly engaging are the hallmarks of our PukaUp conversations. We create environments that allow every person to have authentic and genuine conversations about mental health and wellbeing. Normalising these important topics by inviting people into the conversation in a non-judgmental way empowers your community to begin having these discussions at home, at work, at school, in your sporting club and any other social circle.Follow this link to learn more.  (link to ambassadors)

I Am Worried About A Loved One. What Should I Do?

If your loved one is at risk of harming themselves or others call 000 immediately and stay with the person until the emergency services arrive.If you are concerned about a loved one who isn’t suicidal, then visiting a GP is an important first step to getting appropriate support. A GP can make an assessment/ diagnosis which might include developing a mental health plan and providing a referral to see a psychologist or psychiatrist. The GP may also recommend medication as part of a treatment plan. It’s important to discuss any concerns you or your loved one might have about medication and any potential side effects. Mental Health Plans provide 10 sessions with a psychologist or psychiatrist in any 12 month period.

I Am Not Coping. What Should I Do?

Life can be challenging and it’s ok to feel overwhelmed or that you are not coping. Discussing your thoughts and feelings with someone you can trust such as your GP, partner, family, friends or work colleagues is important. Sharing our concerns and vulnerabilities with those closest to us can help to reduce the stress we might be experiencing. If your ability to function daily is being impacted because of the stress you’re experiencing, visiting a GP is an important step.

I Am A Parent. How Do I Start The Mental Wellbeing Conversation With My Kids?

Right!? These conversations can be challenging and uncomfortable but with the right toolbox and framework you can create a safe space at home for you and your children to speak openly about these important topics.  To help get you started with developing your own toolbox, we are creating a tailor made course for any parent wanting to learn the tools, dialogue, mental health literacy and psychological first aid skills that allow you to be able to start having these conversations at home. Watch this space! If you want to be kept in the loop for when this course becomes available sign up here.

Can We Get Puka Up Programs Or Presentations Into Our School?

Yes! We believe in prevention and education. Equipping children, teachers and parents with the necessary skills, toolbox and confidence to be able to proactively manage their wellbeing is vital for their health and the health of future generations. If you would like more information please contact info@pukaup.com or enquire here.

Can I Volunteer / Intern For Puka Up?

Absolutely! We are always looking for passionate people who want to make positive change in our communities and who believe in our mission and want to join The Movement.If our vision excites you as much as it does us, we want to hear from you. Whether it be volunteering, interning, pro bono work or something we haven’t thought of yet, please email us at info@pukaup.com with your details including your skill set and what you would like to get out of your experience.

Are We Different To Beyond Blue And Other Organisations?

Yes. PukaUp has partnered with Optimal Health Australia which brings together front line advocacy and clinically validated evidence-based programming, a first in Australia. Awareness alone is not good enough anymore. Instead, our focus is prevention and working to keep people healthy via our evidence-based education programs and workshops. Helping individuals, communities and organisations develop the tools, confidence and capacity to proactively manage wellbeing is at the centre of everything we do.