Tasmanian LiFE Awards – 2025 Nominee
Priority Populations LiFE Award
The Priority Populations Life Award recognises the positive impact by individuals, organisations or community groups that are addressing, preventing or responding to suicidal behaviours in populations and groups disproportionately affected by suicide in Tasmania. They may also be highlighting the gaps and identifying strategies and embedding solutions specifically for people in need. This award highlights those who are culturally sensitive, overcome barriers, promote inclusion and delivers improved outcomes for priority populations.
Proudly sponsored by Mental Health Council of Tasmania
Men’s Resources Tasmania – Building Pathways
Men’s Resources Tasmania’s Building Pathways Coaching and Mentoring program supports men who are involved with the correctional system, or at risk of becoming involved. From humble beginnings as a one-on-one support program, Building Pathways now offers a range of supports to men across their incarceration journey.
The Building Pathways program is based on Men’s Resources Tasmania’s desire to see improvements in services for men and boys’ wellbeing in Tasmania. Men are over-represented in national suicide figures, and incarcerated men are often forgotten because of the complex nature of working with them. Many inmates struggle with their mental health, but barriers prevent them from getting the help they need and prevent organisations from being able to reach them.
The Building Pathways program was created by volunteers and based on years of personal and professional experience. It brings an innovative approach to providing support for incarcerated and at-risk men. The program includes group work for men preparing for release and transitional support for those leaving prison. Building Pathways also trains inmates to become Peer Support Workers, which has been well-received by the prison community.
Through feedback and working with participants, the program gains a greater understanding of the unique needs of incarcerated men and the complexities of working with them. Men’s Resources Tasmania is committed to adapting the program to reach more men and empowering them with the skills needed to reach out and ask for help.
