In the wake of Ashley Close’s unfortunate passing, staff at Holiday Extras have initiated responses that are both impactful and supportive, particularly focusing on men’s mental health.
- The death of Ashley Close, a long-serving member of Holiday Extras, has motivated staff to create initiatives to support mental well-being.
- Significant efforts have been made to address men’s mental health stigma, including organising supportive male-only activities.
- These initiatives feature ‘walk and talk’ sessions which encourage open discussions regarding mental health.
- By fostering a supportive environment, Holiday Extras aims to prevent similar tragedies.
Holiday Extras staff have collectively confronted the profound impact of Ashley Close’s death, which occurred last year. Close, who contributed over a decade to the company in various roles, was a valued team member whose loss was felt deeply across the organisation. As highlighted by Lindsay Garvey-Jones, UK national retail manager, the response from within has been substantial and resonant.
The initiatives taken by staff include the formation of men’s support groups, specifically designed to tackle the stigma surrounding men’s mental health. These groups aim to provide a safe space for male employees to discuss their challenges and experiences openly, thereby fostering an environment of support and understanding. This approach underscores a broader organisational commitment to mental well-being.
One of the key activities introduced is the ‘walk and talk’ sessions. These sessions offer participants the opportunity to engage in open discussions about their mental health, all within the informal setting of a shared walk. The inclusion of such sessions marks a proactive step towards embedding mental health discussions into the daily fabric of workplace interactions at Holiday Extras.
The response also includes various craft nights and mutual support activities, which are exclusively male-only sessions. These activities not only aim to provide leisure and relaxation but also serve as a platform for breaking down barriers to mental health conversations.
Ashley Close had left the travel industry in mid-2018 yet maintained connections with numerous colleagues and industry friends. Through these initiatives, Holiday Extras staff are not only honouring Close’s memory but are contributing to a legacy of open discussion and preventive action regarding mental health issues.
Holiday Extras has exemplified a committed response to mental health advocacy in the wake of loss.
