GoodYarn Community Workshop FAQs

What is GoodYarn?

GoodYarn is the name of a community workshop where you’ll learn all about mental wellbeing, how to protect it, and how to talk to someone you are concerned about. You’ll pick up lots of useful tips and information, practice having caring conversations and learn what support is available if more help is needed. It’s not just good for your mental health, but for those around you.

How do I know if this is the right workshop for me?

If you want to find out more about mental health and gain the confidence to talk about mental health with friends, family, colleagues and your community, this is the workshop for you.

How long is the workshop?

The workshop is 3 hours (and includes a short tea break).

What can I expect during the workshop?

The information is delivered by two facilitators in the form of a presentation. You will receive a workbook when you arrive and this is yours to keep. This is an interactive workshop and you are invited to join in with conversation although this is not essential, you are welcome to simply listen and observe if you prefer. There is no pressure to speak. The workshop is split into two sections with a tea break and refreshments provided.

What does “peer to peer” mean?

Peer to peer means that the workshops are delivered by people from your community (your peers), who aren’t mental health professionals, but are regular people who have lived experience of mental health challenges, are good at facilitation, understand their community and have been trained to talk about mental health to their friends, colleagues and whānau.

Can I leave early?

Sorry but it’s best if you are there for the whole workshop, as you may miss some important information and it can be disruptive to other participants. Please make arrangements to attend for the whole time.

Do I need to have any experience?

There is no experience necessary. This is an opportunity to learn and support yourself and your loved ones.

Can I bring my children?

The content of these workshops is not suitable for anyone under the age of 18. We do not have the staff or facilities to look after your children at the workshops so please make alternative arrangements for them.

If you are attending the new or expectant parents workshop you are welcome to bring your baby.

How do I find out when the workshops are running?

A full list of upcoming workshops is available on our workshops & events page You can also find our upcoming events and keep up to date with our latest news by following us on Facebook.

What do I need to bring?

You do not need to bring anything with you. We will provide your workbook and a pen, a light snack and water.

Who can I contact if I have any questions about the course?

If you have any questions about the course, please refer to the information on our website. If you can’t find the information you are looking for, please contact us via our contact form.

Who can I contact if I have any concerns about my mental health or of someone I know?

We will provide you with a list of local and national resources in your workbook. However, if you are currently worried about someone or yourself and need immediate support please text 1737.

1737 is a free service for New Zealanders feeling down, anxious, a bit overwhelmed or just need to chat to someone. You can call or text for free 24/7

Where can I find out more about GoodYarn?

To find out more about GoodYarn please visit their website https://www.goodyarn.org/

I’d like to bring a workshop to my community who should I contact?

If you are part of a community that you feel would benefit from these workshops please contact our team via the contact us form.

What if I’ve come to a workshop before, can I go again?

You are welcome to attend our workshops more than once, however our funding only supports one attendance per person. Feel free to contact us and we can offer details of pricing for you.

How do I tell you about my dietary requirements or other special assistance required?

When you register we will send you a questionnaire and you can tell us any special dietary requirements or assistance that you require.

I’ve been to a goodyarn workshop and I’d like to find out about facilitating one myself?

If you have attended a workshop and you are interested in becoming a facilitator or finding out more please contact Mary Mansell via our contact form here.