Abta LifeLine is calling on travel businesses to get involved in its upcoming Big Charity Day 2018 following “one of the most difficult cases” in the organisation’s recent history – the murder of Tui agent Cassie Hayes.
The travel trade charity stepped in to help fund the funeral and a celebration of Cassie’s life. She died earlier this year after being attacked with a knife in the Southport branch where she was assistant manager.
Abta LifeLine director Trudie Drake said the charity had approached Tui to see how it could provide support in the wake of Cassie’s “shocking and sudden” death on January 13.
In the days following the attack, a social media campaign, #AgentsUnited, was launched by Travel Gossip’s Bruce Martin, which went on to raise more than £7,500.
Drake praised Martin and the “incredible resilience” of the UK travel trade. “In no other industry would everyone come together so generously and support each other the way we did,” she said.
Drake reiterated “no case is too big or too small” for Abta LifeLine to consider, from paying bills and replacing appliances to helping industry members rebuild their lives following violent relationships.
Abta LifeLine is going football crazy in the lead-up to its Big Charity Day on June 28, with a range of fundraising activities inspired by the World Cup, which kicked off this week in Russia.
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-aside 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.