Murals for Mikeysline

It’s hoped a new city centre based mental health mural will encourage more people to open up about their struggles.

Inspired by the music of Scots singer and Mikeysline ambassador Callum Beattie, the fan-funded piece of artwork will take pride of place within the Inverness Victorian Market.

The creation is the brainchild of Callum Beattie fan, Ruthie Cumming, who after a trip to the Highland Capital on holiday from Eaglesham, was inspired by the current Mikeysline nature mural situated inside the shopping centre.

Mikeysline was established in 2015 following the tragic deaths of good friends Martin Shaw and Michael Williamson in a 48-hour period. The local mental health charity, currently in its tenth anniversary year, provides 365-day a year support to those struggling with their mental health and/or suicidal thoughts throughout the Highlands, Islands and Moray via number of outreach services including 1:1 peer-support, textline and webchat, as well as some group support options.

Ruthie said: “The sight of the Mikeysline nature inspired mural in the Victorian Market served as a powerful reminder to me of the connection between nature, art, and mental well-being. Seeing it brought a so much joy to my holiday.

As a Callum Beattie fan, I know that  both he and his manager Dave are passionate advocates for breaking the stigma around mental health as well as patrons of the charity.”

After hearing Callum’s deeply emotive single ‘Something in My Eye’ – a song about mental health – it gave Ruthie the idea of funding another mural to embody the message that it’s ok not to be ok.

“I presented the idea to the fan page and it gained momentum, so I spearheaded the campaign, with supporters donating and spreading the word. 

The hope is that the mural will be a symbol of community, of music’s ability to heal, and of the importance of speaking up about mental health.”

Mikeysline CEO, Emily Stokes, said: “These projects are life changing to so many and really help signpost our services in a creative and colourful way. Prominent visual pieces of art like this will help us to challenge the stigma and change the dialogue around mental health. We are so grateful to Ruthie and all the wonderful Callum Beattie fans who so generously donated towards this amazing artwork, Marc from Fresh Paint who has brought this incredible idea to life, and the Victorian Market for their support in this partnership.” 

It’s the latest addition to the Murals for Mikeysline initiative as part of the charity’s Bee the Change campaign – a strategy designed to encourage communities, businesses and schools throughout the regions to join forces and advocate for better mental wellbeing.

Bee the Change Manager Allana Stables said: “As we’ve learned from Ruthie, powerful artwork can have a real positive impact on someone’s day. A recent study has shown the links between beautiful art and dopamine release, the hormone that transmits signals of joy to the brain.”

“We’re really keen to have more artwork like this commissioned all over the Highlands, Island and Moray, so if your workplace or organisation would like more information on funding a piece in partnership with Mikeysline, please email beethechange@mikeysline.co.uk.”

Callum Beattie’s manager and fellow Mikeysline ambassador, Dave Rogers, added: “Both Callum and I are overwhelmed not just by the generosity of Ruthie and the fan base for making this happen, but by the mural itself which has so brilliantly encapsulated the positive power of music, art and nature.”

“As passionate mental health advocates with strong links to the Highlands, we are so proud to be affiliated with Mikeysline and champion the narrative that it’s ok not to be ok. We can’t wait to be back up in Inverness to see the mural in person.”

Victorian Market Manger, Cameron MacFarlane said: “We are so proud of our ongoing relationship with Mikeysline and the mural takes us to a new level of understanding the importance of what the charity are doing in support of ITS OK TO BE OK. Countless members of the public have said how they loved the original mural and what it represents about the people of Inverness, we were honoured to be asked to have another in the Victorian Market.”

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Pictured: The mural within the Victorian Market, Dave Rogers (L) & Callum Beattie (R) in the Siobhan Mackenzie designed Mikeysline tartan scarves, Callum with Mikeysline Bee the Change Manager, Allana Stables, at the Victorian Market

Mikeysline operates 365 days a year, accessible through their text line at 07786207755; WhatsApp at 01463 729000, messenger and via its website and live chat. They offer face-to-face support in Hives across the region – at their Inverness headquarters, and in their Alness, Nairn, Tain & District, Thurso and Elgin hubs. Here, people can engage in one-to-one support, or at some venues join in group sessions for adults, men, families and young people.

The Mikeysline mobile app: Along with their latest news, events and ways to get involved, the app makes it even easier for those in need of help to reach out for support.

Links to download our App:

Android:  https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.thecafeapp.mikeysline&pcampaignid=web_share

iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/mikeysline/id6736364818

The charity also produces a popular podcast, Speaking of Suicide; provides support for businesses; works closely with teachers and pupils in schools across the North of Scotland.

For more information, visit www.mikeysline.co.uk or find Mikeysline on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok

Mikeysline Scoops Silver at Scottish Awards

Local mental health charity Mikeysline has been recognized at a national ceremony, celebrating people and organisations throughout Scotland.

The Mental Health & Wellbeing Awards rewards and recognises individuals and companies who go above and beyond to put the wellbeing of others first.

Mikeysline received the silver accolade in the Impact in the Community category at the event in Edinburgh last month.

Featuring a keynote speech from Falkland veteran, Simon Weston CBE, the award honours those who go above and beyond for their community members.

The charity’s CEO, Emily Stokes, said: “To be acknowledged at an event among our peers is an incredible achievement. Being present in our communities throughout Highlands, Islands and Moray is such an important part of what we do and to be recognised for that is a wonderful testament to the brilliant support work being carried out by our staff, volunteers, and our ongoing Bee the Change campaign.”

Introduced in 2023, the Bee The Change campaign creatively engages with communities to challenge and change the stigma surrounding mental health, anxiety, depression and/or suicidal thoughts.

Some of the campaign’s highlights include cooking with kindness classes in local primary schools, inter-generational art lessons in Munlochy and Nairn, and creating the first ever Bee the Change choir with Charleston Academy which saw pupils sing alongside Callum Beattie and to an audience of over 200 at the charity’s annual Burns Supper in January.

Bee the Change Manager, Allana Stables, said: “It’s so important for everyone, regardless of age or gender, to know that it’s ok not to be ok. Kindness and community is at the heart of this campaign along with finding creative ways to improve mental health and wellbeing. We hope by making our presence felt, more people will find it easier to take that first step towards help.”

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Pictured: Mikeysline CEO, Emily Stokes (L) and Mikeysline Operations Manager, Linda Birnie (R) with Silver Award.

Mikeysline operates 365 days a year, accessible through their text line at 07786207755; WhatsApp at 01463 729000, messenger and via its website and live chat. They offer face-to-face support in Hives across the region – at their Inverness headquarters, and in their Alness, Nairn, Tain & District, Thurso and Elgin hubs.

The Mikeysline mobile app: Along with their latest news, events and ways to get involved, the app makes it even easier for those in need of help to reach out for support. Links to download our App:

Mikeysline nominated for Highland Hero award

Mental health and suicide prevention charity Mikeysline has been nominated for an important accolade at this year’s Highland Heroes Awards.

The annual ceremony hosted by Highland News and Media shines a spotlight on the unsung people and organisations quietly striving to make a difference within their local communities.

The charity’s peer support volunteers are honoured to join their fellow shortlist candidates as a nominee in the Emergency Services & Crisis Services Hero of the Year category.

Established in 2015 following the tragic deaths of two friends within 48-hours of each other, the charity offers text support as well as outreach services throughout the Highlands, Islands and Moray. It provides well-being training to businesses and organisations; offers 1:1 support in several high schools, as well as resilience building sessions in a number of local primaries.

One of the nominations for Mikeysline said: “Chief Executive Emily Stokes works tirelessly to keep the charity at the forefront of people’s minds, so it has the funds it needs to carry out vital work.”

Emily said: “It’s a very kind thing to say and the truth is Mikeysline simply couldn’t operate without its volunteers. They come from different walks of life and cover a broad age spectrum; one thing they often have in common is that their own lives may have been touched by suicide and that gives our volunteers a level of empathy and compassion that supports people in crisis to feel deeply understood.

Their passion, time, dedication to the cause is what keeps us doing our best to make the quality of people’s lives worthwhile and worth fighting for and worth carrying on for.”

You can vote for Mikeysline online at https://www.hnmedia.co.uk/highlandheroes/ 

Voting closes by midnight on Monday, February 10!

The Mikeysline mobile app: Along with their latest news, events and ways to get involved, the app makes it even easier for those in need of help to reach out for support.

Links to download our App:

Android:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.thecafeapp.mikeysline&pcampaignid=web_share

iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/mikeysline/id6736364818

The charity also produces a popular podcast, Speaking of Suicide; provides support for businesses; works closely with teachers and pupils in schools across the north of Scotland; and offers face-to-face support in Hives across the region – at its Inverness headquarters, and in Alness, Nairn, Tain & District, Thurso and Elgin, Here, people can engage in one-to-one support, or at some venues join in group sessions for adults, men, families and young people.

For more information, visit www.mikeysline.co.uk – or find Mikeysline on Facebook and Instagram  and Tiktok

Ambitious paperclip charity challenge gets underway.

A charity volunteer is putting his day job sales skills to the ultimate test for Mikeysline.

Armed with a humble paperclip, Inverness estate agent, George King, is aiming to trade up the stationery for higher value items with the final proceeds going to the mental health and suicide prevention charity.

The 27-year-old is hoping to emulate the success of previous efforts in the US which have seen similar small tokens swapped up to high value goods, and he has big hopes of his own.

George said: “Having volunteered with Mikeysline for the past 7 years I have first-hand experience of what the charity’s support means to our service users. Fundraising is key to ensuring we can reach as many people as possible which is why the tenth anniversary is the perfect time to embark on this creative challenge.”

“The ultimate goal is to trade my paperclip up to a house, to be sold with all proceeds going to Mikeysline. It’s an ambitious target but with the charity as my motivation and the support of my employer Hamish Homes, I’m confident I can achieve my target. I’m already receiving offers of potential swaps and can’t wait to get started.”

Launched in 2015 following the tragic deaths of two good friends within 48-hours, Mikeysline has grown from a single text for help hotline to also offering 1:1 support at their Inverness Alness, Nairn, Tain & District, Thurso and Elgin hives, as well as supporting local schools and businesses.

Steven Murray, Hamish Homes Director, said: “All of us here at Hamish Homes fully support George’s fundraising mission for Mikeysline. Since 2015 the charity has established itself as a symbol of hope for those who feel they have nowhere to turn during their darkest moments. Its longevity is a testament to the vital work they do throughout the Highlands, Islands and Moray and how needed they are. We’re behind George every step of the way and look forward to sharing his journey with everyone on our social media platforms.”

Emily Stokes, CEO for Mikeysline, said: “George is such an important part of our support team here at Mikeysline, volunteering for our text line, events and men’s group. Selfless individuals like him are the reason we can reach out to those struggling in their darkest moments. This brilliant challenge will not only provide a unique and engaging fundraising opportunity, but the added bonus of further investment into our lifeline services. Everyone has the ability to bee the change and George is really putting that into action. We can’t wait to see where this journey takes him.”

Open to all schools, businesses, community groups and individuals, the 10 for 10 challenge is an opportunity for some creative fundraising through a series of self-appointed tasks from scaling munros to community clean ups. We hope that within 10 swaps George will meet his objective or be well on the way!

There are lots of ideas on their website: https://mikeyslineold.vhostevents.com/get-involved/10-challenges-for-10-years/

If you feel you can help George in this challenge, then please email g.king@hamish-homes.co.uk

Pictured: Mikeysline volunteer, and Hamish Homes estate agent, George King, gets his first swap underway with Bee the Change Manager, Allana Stables, at the Inverness Hive on Strothers Lane.

The Mikeysline mobile app: Along with their latest news, events and ways to get involved, the app makes it even easier for those in need of help to reach out for support.

Links to download our App:

Android:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.thecafeapp.mikeysline&pcampaignid=web_share

iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/mikeysline/id6736364818

The charity also produces a popular podcast, Speaking of Suicide; provides support for businesses; works closely with teachers and pupils in schools across the north of Scotland; and offers face-to-face support in Hives across the region – at its Inverness headquarters, and in Alness, Nairn, Tain & District, Thurso and Elgin, Here, people can engage in one-to-one support, or at some venues join in group sessions for adults, men, families and young people.

For more information, visit www.mikeysline.co.uk – or find Mikeysline on Facebook and Instagram  and Tiktok

Mikeysline’s High Hopes to Hit £100k

A new fundraising initiative is giving businesses across the Highlands, Islands and Moray a chance to help raise £100,000 for Mikeysline as they enter their tenth year.

Up to 150 local companies can become Hive Heroes by sponsoring a hexagon on the charity’s beekeeper’s website over a 12-month period, signaling their support for the vital services they provide.

Gold, Silver and Bronze Beekeepers packages are up for grabs, with the money raised helping Mikeysline maintain and grow their lifeline mental health and suicide prevention services throughout their regions

Approximately £100 will fund one night of one-to-one peer support at their Inverness Hive on Strothers Lane, hosting an average of 6 appointments per shift. The hive runs 7 days a week, 365 days of the year.

Around £1200 funds drop-in sessions every week at currently 18 local high schools, from Thurso to Grantown, with more set to be added this year. Mikeysline staff offer the student body a safe, non-judgmental space to work through their emotions without fear of judgement.

It costs the charity roughly £4000 per month to run their ‘Hive on the Road’ service, helping those in our hardest to reach communities access mental health support.

Nairn based engineering business, Boiler and Valve, have got the ball rolling by becoming the charity’s first Gold Hive Hero, donating an incredible £2500 and securing two gold hexagons.

Andrew MacDonald, Boiler and Valve’s Managing Director, said: “All the team at Boiler and Valve are so proud to be Mikeysline’s very first Gold Hive Hero! We hope other business will join us in pledging and help support such an important local charity in their tireless effort to make mental health and suicide prevention a top priority here in the North.”

Bee the Change Manager for Mikeysline, Allana Stables, said: “We know how strong the community and corporate support is across our area, but also appreciate times are financially challenging for so many right now. We’ve created a campaign that enables you to support our grassroots charity in stages, at different levels throughout the year. In our 10^th year, your kind and generous donations will help us continue to provide the vital services throughout the Highlands, Islands and Moray We’d like to express our gratitude to Boiler & Valve for being our first gold hive hero and are excited to see what other people/businesses will be added and showcased along the way.

Emily Stokes, CEO for Mikeysline, said: “As a grassroots charity, fundraising is at the heart of enabling Mikeysline to reach those struggling with their mental health, depression, anxiety and/or suicidal thoughts. The generous donation from Boiler and Valve is a fantastic start to our Hive Heroes campaign and hopefully those hexagons will start filling up with brilliant businesses from across the Highlands, Islands and Moray.”

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Beekeeper’s Website: https://mikeyslinebeekeepers.co.uk/

50 x GOLD Package – £100 p/m

50 x SILVER Package – £50 p/m

50 x BRONZE Package – £25 p/m

Mikeysline operates 365 days a year, accessible through their text line at 07786 207755; WhatsApp at 01463 729000, messenger and via its website and live chat.

They offer face-to-face support in Hives across the region – at its Inverness headquarters, and in Alness, Nairn, Tain & District, Thurso and Elgin,

The Mikeysline mobile app: Along with their latest news, events and ways to get involved, the app makes it even easier for those in need of help to reach out for support.

Links to download our App:

Android:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.thecafeapp.mikeysline&pcampaignid=web_share

iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/mikeysline/id6736364818

The charity also produces a popular podcast, Speaking of Suicide; provides support for businesses; works closely with teachers and pupils in schools across the north of Scotland; and offers face-to-face support in Hives across the region – at its Inverness headquarters, and in Alness, Nairn, Tain & District, Thurso and Elgin, Here, people can engage in one-to-one support, or at some venues join in group sessions for adults, men, families and young people.

For more information, visit www.mikeysline.co.uk – or find Mikeysline on Facebook and Instagram  and Tiktok