UnLtd Launches #GotchaMelbourne To Support Melbourne Ad Industry

UnLtd, the industry’s social purpose organisation has launched an industry connection and mental wellbeing initiative in partnership with Gotcha4Life titled #GotchaMelbourne, to help support our industry in Melbourne during the lockdown.

The program will see adlanders outside Victoria committing to weekly check-ins with their Melbourne mates and peers to chat, listen, connect, laugh or share a tear with. The participants will share their progress on social media using #GotchaMelbourne to encourage others to participate.

Chris Freel, CEO of UnLtd said: “Especially in a lockdown, staying connected to others is an important part of maintaining mental fitness and preventing isolation. We want our colleagues in Melbourne to know that whilst we might be in a different state, we’re there for you, we’ve ‘gotcha’.”

The program follows the success of the #CoLiv19 project that saw 19 leaders connect with 19 people over 19 days earlier on in the pandemic. The project highlighted the value and power of connection and the positive impact a simple phone call can have.

Gus Worland, Founder & Chairman of Gotcha4Life said: “My vision at Gotcha4Life is zero suicides so we are on a mission to raise awareness of the importance of having a close friend in your life, someone you can speak openly and honestly to when times are tough.

“With the second lockdown in Melbourne, it’s so important to stay connected to ensure no one feels isolated and everyone has someone to talk to. We’re delighted to see the media and marketing industry lead this great initiative and we hope it inspires others to do the same. Don’t worry alone.”

The participants commit to checking in with a Melbourne contact at least once a week for as long as the lockdowns continue. Those who want to share their progress on socials can do so by using #GotchaMelbourne to encourage others to join in too.

The already confirmed participants supporting the initiative include individuals and teams from BBE, Carat, Facebook, GroupM, Hearts & Science, Impact, INC Digital, KPMG, LinkedIn, M&C Saatchi, Media Merchants, Network 10, News Corp, OMD, oOh!media, PHD, QMS Media, Quantcast, Seven, Snap Inc., The Trade Desk, ThinkTV, Twitch, Val Morgan, Verizon Media and Wavemaker.

Loan Morris, CEO of INC Digital and instigator of the original idea commented: “We’re all feeling for Melbourne and this is a great initiative to be part of. It’s such an important time to stay connected with our friends in Melbourne and I’m looking forward to checking in with colleagues and friends over the coming weeks.”

UnLtd is encouraging companies and individuals across the industry to get involved to help support our industry friends in Melbourne and keep them connected throughout this challenging time.

If you or someone you care about needs urgent support, please contact:

Lifeline 13 11 14

Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467

MensLine Australia 1300 78 99 78

Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636

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