Mikeysline receives Royal backing on World Mental Health Day

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.

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

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Film: This video about the National Suicide Prevention Network has been released by the Royal Foundation, featuring Mikeysline and our Hive on the Road, including footage taken of the Prince and Princess of Wales inside our van earlier this year. This footage was taken on their visit to Mull. 

The Royal Foundation: The Royal Foundation, the philanthropic vehicle of the Prince and Princess of Wales, develops initiatives linked to Their Royal Highnesses’ passion for tackling society’s greatest challenges. It leads with belief that change is always possible and brings people and ideas together to spark progress.

National Suicide Prevention Network Founding Partners:

Mikeysline (Scotland), PIPS (Northern Ireland), Jac Lewis Foundation (Wales), James’ Place (England). Additionally, the Hub of Hope is the Signposting partner.

Hive on the Road: Launched in 2024, Mikeysline’s Hive on the Road enables support staff to provide accessible 1:1 support sessions in the more rural areas of the Highlands, Islands and Moray. The initiative was made possible by a generous grant from The Wolfsen Foundation which allowed Mikeysline to purchase its first transit van and enlist Vulcan Van Conversations to make modifications. Additional grants from McDonalds in the Community and West Fraser also supported the development and ongoing costs of the project. In 2025, West Fraser remain our key sponsor partner for our original Hive on the Road.

Mikeysline: 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 Dingwall Alness, Nairn, Tain, Wick, 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