The travel trade charity funded counselling, including a 24-hour support line, for the team at the family-run South Shields agency following the terror attack last May.
Owner Graeme Brett said the days and weeks after the incident had been “incredibly difficult” for everyone at Westoe Travel.
“It was something no one ever thinks they would have to come to terms with,” said Brett. “It was just awful for us as a family and a business. We had to keep going though – we couldn’t just close our door.”
Brett said the counselling arranged through Abta LifeLine had been “a real comfort”, adding: “I spoke with them a lot, and knowing they were there at the end of the phone was important.”
He also recalled how charity staff supported and met with him during a business trip to Manchester soon after the attack.
“I didn’t know it was something Abta could help with but it was so appreciated,” Brett added. “You just don’t think anything like this could happen to you or the people you love.”
Abta LifeLine is calling on travel businesses to get involved in its upcoming Big Charity Day 2018 on June 28 to support its vital work.
The charity is going football crazy in the lead-up to the big days itself with a range of fundraising activities inspired by the World Cup.
People can get involved in a Freestyle Challenge by posting videos showing their best tricks on Twitter, tagging @abtalifeline and using #LifeLineFC.
Those entering are encouraged to donate via text by messaging ALFC18 followed by the amount (e.g. ALFC18 £10) to 70070. Although if – like the TTG five-a-side team – you can’t tell your rabona from your Cruyff turn, then there are plenty of other ways to raise money.
Organisers can charge friends and colleagues just £1 to take part in a variety of World Cup-themed events including running a tournament sweepstake, fancy dress days, bake sales, quizzes and bingo.
They can also collect fees for hosting World Cup viewing parties or taking part in a game of office football.
