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Mikeysline sees a 75 percent increase in requests for support


By Imogen James

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Emily Stokes.
Emily Stokes.

MIKEYSLINE chief executive Emily Stokes has spoken out during Mental Health Awareness Week (May 9-15), stressing the importance of looking after people in our communities.

The charity, which provide support to those struggling with mental health issues, has seen a 75 percent increase of requests for support since the first covid lockdown.

Mikeysline receives no government funding and relies on donations from businesses and individuals to provide its services.

"With the pandemic and political upheaval around the world, it can be easy to focus only on the bigger stories that dominate the news and our social media feeds," said Ms Stokes.

“However it’s important not to overlook those that need help on our doorstep. Whether affected by global events or situations closer to home, it’s vital that we look after those in our local communities.

“Since the first Covid lockdown, we have seen a 75% increase in demand for our services providing non-judgemental support to those dealing with mental health issues, emotional distress, or thoughts of suicide in the Highlands and Moray.

“In recent months we have opened new Hives across the region and expanded our text services to include WhatsApp, and yet we are still seeing requests for help continue to rise.

“It’s a sad fact that the rate of suicide is higher in the Highlands than anywhere else in Scotland. We must all look out for each other and check in on people that may be suffering in silence. Simply asking how someone is could make all the difference.

“It’s important that anyone struggling with their mental health knows that it’s ok not to be ok, and that help is available from friends, family and services like Mikeysline.

“We are so grateful to the businesses and individuals that have raised funds for us over the years and allowed us to expand our services to offer support to more and more people.

“Our ability to fundraise was severely reduced during the pandemic, and now that restrictions are lifting we are keen to explore more opportunities to allow us to implement even more potentially life-saving services in our communities.

“From businesses looking for a charity to sponsor for the year to race nights, bakes sales to sponsored silences, we’re keen to hear from any person or organisation that has a fundraising idea.”


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