The organisation this week said it would stand side-by-side in solidarity with ex-Cook staff, as their charity, and support them through what it said would be a “trying time”.

Besides redundancy support, the charity can assist with bereavement and relationship counselling, debt advice, funeral costs and ensuring those in the travel sector who fall on hard times have access to “essential goods”.

The charity has set up dedicated Thomas Cook helplines via thomascookhelp@abtalifeline.org.uk or 020 3693 0171, and has made its emergency assistance forms easily accessible.

“Emergency assistance is in the form of Tesco vouchers to help you buy the essentials and get you through the next few weeks,” said the charity.

Addressing Cook staff, the charity said: “Abta LifeLine is your charity and we want to support you to the best of our ability through this trying time.

“If you know of anyone that may fall on financial difficulty as a result of this situation, please bring Abta LifeLine to their attention and the potential help we could provide.

“If you could pass this on to all employees it would be greatly appreciated. It is our goal to make sure we reach all those that need a lifeline during the challenging times in their lives.”

To donate to Abta Lifeline, visit justgiving.com/abta