Highland-based mental health and suicide prevention charity Mikeysline is driving hope into even more communities as they announce the launch of their second Hive on the Road support vehicle, on World Mental Health Day earlier this month (Friday 10 October).
The new mobile hub, building on the success of their first support van, launched last year, has been made possible through a new multi-agency partnership with The Royal Foundation of the Prince and Princess of Wales – the National Suicide Prevention Network.
Spanning all four home nations, four leading charities have joined as founding partners to transform suicide prevention in the UK with Mikeysline selected to represent Scotland.
Over an initial three-year period, the Network aims to create a single, universal and evidence-based pathway for suicide prevention which is effective and accessible to all. More than a dozen other charities and organisations have joined the Network which is backed by over £1million in funding from The Royal Foundation.
For Mikeysline, the new addition to their fleet will enable the charity to reach even more rural and remote locations throughout the Highlands, Islands and Moray, where awareness raising and access to mental health and suicide prevention services can be limited. It provides another safe, welcoming, and confidential space for people of all age and genders who are struggling with their mental health and/or at risk of suicide.
Speaking ahead of the launch, Mikeysline CEO Emily Stokes said, “The complex geography of our area can increase the sense of isolation felt by those struggling with their mental health. By bringing our services directly into these communities, we can make sure that support is accessible, immediate, and without stigma. By launching on World Mental Health Day we’re underlining Mikeysline’s commitment to ensuring that no one feels alone or without help, no matter where they live.
“Our partnership with The Royal Foundation has enabled us to buy and staff this much needed second van and extend our reach significantly, while our position within the NSPN gives opportunity for connection and sharing of knowledge, expertise and best practise with our colleagues across the UK.”
Mikeysline was established in 2015 following the tragic loss of two young friends to suicide. Since then, it has become a lifeline for people throughout the North of Scotland, offering text-based peer support, one-to-one in person sessions, mobile outreach and support sessions in 17 local high schools. The charity works to break down the stigma around mental health through open conversation with anyone experiencing emotional distress