THE actions of a blackmailer who is trying to bully one Bathurst councillor out of her job have been slammed by Lifeline Central West chief executive officer Stephanie Robinson.
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Councillor Jacqui Rudge received an anonymous letter at her home a week ago threatening to expose her "mental health issues" if she didn't quit within seven days.
But, rather than succumb to the bullying, she called it out and contacted the Western Advocate to shine a light on the behaviour.
"I'm not embarrassed by this, if anything it's made me stronger than ever," she said last week.
Ms Robinson has stepped up beside Cr Rudge to praise her attitude and for standing tall despite the threat.
"I'm sure it's difficult, but good on you, what a platform to say: 'I will not feel shame that I have struggled'," Ms Robinson told the councillor.
"I absolutely commend her for taking this from a different style."
Ms Robinson said for someone to use Cr Rudge's mental health challenges from from four years ago against her "shows a lot more about them than her".
"It's given her an opportunity for her to talk about the importance of seeking help and that with the right help you can come out the other side," she said.
Councillors may put their "hand up for public life", but Ms Robinson said some parts of their lives should remain private.
"I just hope that person realises what they've doing can lead to really dire consequences for people," she said.
"When people don't seek help and support there can be really bad outcomes."
"It leads them to hide their problem or not seek help and it can escalate into all aspects of your life."
- For help in a crisis call Lifeline on 13 11 14.