18 Oct
2010

ABTA’s charitable trust – ABTA Lifeline launches at The Travel Convention in Malta

Bill Turnbull, TV presenter, journalist and of Strictly Come Dancing fame, will formally launch ABTA LifeLine at the Travel Convention, Malta, on 19th October.

ABTA LifeLine is just that: a LifeLine providing help when it’s needed most. As ABTA’s charitable Trust, it’s there for both serving and former employees of ABTA Members.

Recently the charity helped Mia Austin, a 21 year old Cooperative Travel agent who suffered a stroke and is now paralysed from the eyes down with ‘locked in syndrome.’ The charity helped pay for a specially adapted vehicle that enables Mia to have some time away from hospital, something that is really important to her quality of life.

Bill will also be launching LifeLine’s £1 per employee appeal. LifeLine depends on donations to keep helping travel colleagues in need.  So far Advantage Travel Centres, All Leisure Group, Avis Europe, Britaly Travel, Classic Collection Holidays, Cosmos Holidays, Hoseasons Group, Kuoni Group, Shearings Group, Star Travel, Sunvil Holidays, Travel Republic, TUI UK and WorldChoice have all pledged their support.

Nick Longman, Distribution Director at TUI Travel UK and Ireland, comments: “Our employees are a key part of our business and that’s why I am delighted we have been able to support the ABTA Lifeline again this year. We fully support this worthwhile initiative and look forward to helping make a difference.”

Colin Heal, Chairman of Worldchoice said: "Worldchoice are delighted to join ABTA LifeLine's £1 per employee appeal. If all ABTA members and their staff contributed to the appeal, ABTA LifeLine will be able to radically transform the extent of help available to travel industry colleagues who are in need.”