With hopes of increasing social engagement and, more specifically, connecting with young athletes and students across the country, OTLR Radio will broadcast informative and interesting segments that cover various topics across sport, lifestyle, mental health and lived experiences.

“Like many businesses and organisations, it was important for us to find a way to evolve and adapt to these challenging, uncertain times,” said OTLR founder and CEO, Jake Edwards.

“OTLR Radio offers access to the very best expert advice and conversation, which is mixed in with music programming. The station endeavours to help sporting and school communities in particular to connect remotely, helping to mitigate feelings of isolation and loneliness,” he said.

Listeners can expect new content every week, delivered by guest hosts who will conduct interviews and share personal stories and educated opinions on topical issues surrounding emotional and mental wellbeing.

“Social distancing and isolation goes against our very human nature but, for the more at risk, vulnerable members of our community, being disconnected from the outside world and their support network poses even greater challenges in terms of managing mental health issues,” said Edwards.

Having surveyed 1,200 Australians to date, preliminary findings from a Monash University study showed that 30 percent of respondents reported experiencing moderate to high levels of depression since the novel coronavirus outbreak, making access to mental health services especially vital during the coming months.

“We’re all in this together and regardless of circumstances, we want to be sure no one feels left behind or forgotten. Even if we are unable to physically present OTLR programs right now, we can still communicate our message and important organisational updates and resources via these digital channels,” Edwards commented.

Outside The Locker Room (OTLR) is committed to supporting the welfare and education requirements of sporting clubs, schools and workplaces across Australia.

OTLR’s dedicated program focuses on addressing various personal and social challenges which can significantly affect the mental, physical and emotional wellbeing of athletes, students and employees, including mental health issues like anxiety and depression, drugs and alcohol, gambling, domestic violence, and social media pressures

OTLR also provides access to safe, secure and private welfare platforms 24/7 for those needing further support.