Mikeysline is chosen as the new charity partner for the HITA

Mikeysline is nominated as the new charity partner for tourism awards!

The return of the Highland & Islands Tourism Awards (HTTA) for 2022 has seen a record number of entries. 

HITA, sponsors and partners are all delighted the return of the Awards has drawn such support from businesses and individuals right across the HIghlands as the industry recovers from the devastating impact of the pandemic.

It has been the most challenging period for the sector in recent times, which has not only taken a physical toil but has also brought into sharp focus the importance of the mental wellbeing of those working across the industry too. Highland mental health charity, Mikeysline has given its support to this year’s Awards and is the HITA charity partner for 2022.

Craig Ewan, operations director at the Kingsmills Group, Inverness and HITA director, said the partnershp with Mikeysline has come at a time when the need to raise awareness about the importance of having good mental health and being able to receive support when people are struggling is vital.

 “The pandemic has taken its toll on the mental health of so many people, including those working in our tourism and hospitality sector. Raising awareness about mental health and combatting the stigma of seekin help when you’re struggling has never been more important.

People must have someone to turn to, in person or at the end of a phone, to get support when they need it. We are delighted to partner with Mikeysline whihc provides support without any judgement, however big or small an issue may be.”

Emily Stokes, chief executive officer at Mikeysline said: “We are delighted to have been chosen as charity partner for these awards and look forward to celebrating the successes achieved over the past two years in such demanding circumstances for this industry. Anyone of us at anytime can struggle with our mental health and wellbeing and the importance of being able to talk openly and reach out for support at an early stage is paramount.

Funds raised from the charity raffle will not only help us with our critical work in providing direct support 365 days a year, but also in our awareness raising and anti-stigma work in communities, businesses and schools throughout the Highlands and Islands and Moray.”

Since 2015, Mikeysline has offered confidential, non-judgemental support to people of all ages with mental health issues or in emotional distress in the Highlands and Moray via a text line service at 07786 207755; WhatsApp at 01463 729000 and via its website; and live chat, Twitter and Messenger via its website. The charity also produces a popular podcast, Speaking of Suicide, and offers face-to-face support from three Hives across the region – at its Inverness headquarters, at Tesco in Tain, and at The Place in Alness. 

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