West Fraser Drives Continued Support for Mikeysline’s Hive on the Road

Highland mental health charity Mikeysline is celebrating another year of vital fundraising support to drive their mental health provision in to rural communities across the north of Scotland

Leading Dalcross based timber specialists West Fraser have committed to another round of funding for the charity’s original Hive on the Road mobile outreach service.

The continued partnership will help ensure the much-needed service can keep travelling to remote and rural communities across the Highlands, Islands and Moray - bringing accessible mental health and suicide prevention support directly to people who may otherwise struggle to access face-to-face services.

A second Hive on the Road was introduced in 2025 – funded by The Royal Foundation of the Prince and Princess of Wales, the additional vehicle marks the charity’s work with National Suicide Prevention Network of which Mikeysline is a founding partner.

Launched to address the unique challenges faced by people living in rural and isolated areas, Hive on the Road was the first mobile mental health support vehicle of its kind in Scotland. The specially adapted support van provides a safe, welcoming and confidential space where individuals can access one-to-one support sessions, speak openly with trained staff and volunteers, and connect with wider support services.

As demand for mental health support continues to grow across the region, the vehicle has become an increasingly important lifeline for communities where distance, transport barriers and limited local provision can make accessing help more difficult.

Since launching, Hive on the Road has travelled extensively throughout the Highlands and Islands, visiting schools, colleges, workplaces, community groups and local events while helping to raise awareness, reduce stigma and encourage conversations around mental health.

West Fraser has played an important role in supporting the ongoing running costs and development of the project, helping Mikeysline continue to meet communities where they are.

Emily Stokes, CEO at Mikeysline, said:

“We are incredibly grateful to West Fraser for continuing to support our Hive on the Road initiative. Their fundraising efforts and commitment to our work help us bring our services directly to people in communities where support can often feel out of reach.

“The vehicle is far more than just transport – it’s a safe space, a listening ear and a visible reminder that nobody has to struggle alone. Partnerships like this allow us to continue delivering accessible support to those who need it most, and we’re so grateful to have their backing – especially at such a financially challenging time for charities.”

John Maude, General Manager at West Fraser, added:

“We are proud to continue supporting Mikeysline and the incredible work they do through Hive on the Road. Mental health support is vitally important for our rural areas, and we know the service is making a genuine difference to people across the Highlands.

“Supporting local communities is hugely important to us, and we are delighted that our funding efforts can help Mikeysline continue this valuable outreach work.”

Mikeysline was founded in 2015 following the tragic deaths of close friends Martin Shaw and Michael “Mikey” Williamson. Since then, the charity has grown to provide a range of free mental health and suicide prevention services across the north of Scotland, including text-based, callback and face-to-face support as well as working with schools and businesses.

For more information about Mikeysline and Hive on the Road, visit www.mikeysline.co.uk.