Trade rallies for mental health

SCOTTISH licensed trade charity The Ben has joined forces with counterparts in England and Northern Ireland to provide mental health support to workers in the industry.

Under a newly-brokered agreement between The Ben, Hospitality Ulster and English trade charity The Benevolent, Scottish and Northern Irish staff are now able to access a counselling helpline set up last year by The Benevolent.

The helpline, on 0800 915 4610, is free of charge, manned by professional counsellors and is entirely confidential.

Chris Gardner, chief executive of The Ben, said: “This is a great opportunity for us to work with The Benevolent and Hospitality Ulster to benefit everyone, young and old, with a connection to the licensed trade, by giving immediate access to help with mental health issues, which are becoming more prevalent in today’s society.

“Together we can make a difference.”

Chris Porter, chief executive of The Benevolent, added: “I’m very pleased and proud that this vital campaign is now truly nationwide.”