It's been another busy year for ABTA LifeLine with many people seeking practical, financial and emotional support.
We have helped each applicant in the best way we can, tailoring our support to that individual or family. People like Miranda who didn't have anywhere else to turn in her time of need.
From food vouchers to washing machines, funerals to debt, benefit and counselling support, our LifeLine really has stretched far and wide.
We are exceptionally proud this year to have worked with TTG Media on mental health, holding our first joint Get Travel Talking mental health awareness week which was well received across the industry. We are now looking to implement a mental health peer to peer support network to help provide accessible support to our travel community. In the new year LifeLine will be funding 5 mental health first aid training places to kick start the initiative.
We are also extremely privileged to work with Travel Weekly on our TravelCares appeal helping us to raise vital funds to provide our services and to reach those in our travel community who need our help. TravelCares has raised over £25,000 to date.
A huge thank you also goes to all our supporters that have helped us through this year; in particular ABTA, Avis Budget Group, Kuoni, Blue Bay, TUI, Royal Caribbean, One World Travel Group, Travel Gossip, Travel Radio, Citizens Advice Manchester, The Centre for Crisis Psychology and many more.
But of course our work does not stop here. There are many more people that need our help and more funds to raise to continue our good work.
For the time being LifeLine is taking a well deserved break. The office will be shut 22 December to 4 January. If your need is urgent during this time please speak to your GP if you are concerned about your mental health and wellbeing or get in touch with the mental health charities relevant to you. For financial hardship please speak to your local food bank, CAB and Shelter.
Of course you are more than welcome to fill out our online application form and we will review your case on our return.
Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas. And enjoy our video!