10 Jul 2026 ABTA LifeLine sees increase in applications as pressures hit travel professionals LifeLine has seen applications almost triple compared with the same period last year, reflecting the growing pressures facing people across the travel industry.Demand has come from individuals and families experiencing a wide range of challenges, from financial hardship, debt to serious illness, domestic violence, mobility issues and appliance poverty (inability to access essential household appliances).The charity provides help for the travel industry with a wide range of issues, including financial and emotional support to current and former employees of ABTA members. This includes debt advice, essential household items, crisis support, and help with unexpected life events that can destabilise families.ABTA LifeLine is urging businesses and individuals across the travel industry to come together to support colleagues in need. Every donation, event ticket and fundraising effort helps the charity continue its essential work.Trudie Clements, Director of ABTA LifeLine, said: “We’re seeing a clear shift in the level of need. One of the drivers appears to be ongoing cost of living pressures, which continue to hit travel professionals hard,”“People are coming to us earlier, and with more complex challenges, and we want them to know that Lifeline is here for them. In fact, we’ve already surpassed the number of applications we received in the whole of last year.“The rise in applications presents a further challenge for the charity — securing the vital funds needed to meet growing demand for our services. And that’s where we need industry support”How you can support ABTA LifeLineBook a table at the ABTA LifeLine Dinner, sponsored by Everywhen, on 9 September at the RAF Club in Mayfair. The evening includes a three-course dinner, entertainment, auction and raffle in support of the charity.Take part in the Madeira Challenge (9–14 October). Experience an adventure of a lifetime, whilst raising vital funds for LifeLine. Join the £2 Per Employee Appeal, making an annual contribution of £2 per employee in your business. Contributions can be made annually or spread throughout the year. For more information about LifeLine, upcoming events, or to donate, visit https://www.abtalifeline.org.uk to learn more about ABTA LifeLine. Notes to editorsAbout ABTA LifeLineABTA LifeLine is ABTA’s charity for past and present employees of ABTA members. The charity provides support for the unexpected moments in life such as redundancy, relationship breakdown, accidents and bereavement among many other things.It gives practical, financial and emotional assistance to travel colleagues that are really struggling, throwing them a LifeLine in their time of need. About ABTAABTA is a trade association for UK travel agents, tour operators and the wider travel industry. We’re the largest travel trade body, with over 3,500 travel brands in membership who have a combined annual UK turnover of over £41 billion. We work closely with our members to help raise and maintain standards and build a more sustainable travel industry, and provide travellers with advice, guidance and support.Our members sign up to a code of conduct and commit to agreed service standards and fair trading. When you need clear travel information, and accurate and impartial advice relating to your trip, we’re here for you. When you book with an ABTA member, reliable advice comes as standard. This means that booking with our members brings peace of mind.All this together means we help you travel with confidence. www.abta.com
