Travel companies choose to support the Charlie Waller Trust

We’re delighted that Jules Verne and sister company CV Villas have chosen the Charlie Waller Trust as their Charity of the Year. The tour operators have set a minimum fundraising target of £5,000 and are committed to raising awareness of mental health and wellbeing in their workplace.

The Charlie Waller Trust was chosen following a comprehensive selection process, which culminated in a vote amongst all staff. Over 30 charities were considered against certain criteria, including how relatable and relevant they were to each business and the impact they have on the local community.

Established in 1978, Jules Verne is renowned for arranging innovative, small group, cultural tours that provide authentic travel experiences for people who love to see the world. Their Managing Director, Debbie O’Neill, said: “We’re more than just a tour operator. We’re a small team of passionate human beings who care about the world and the people in it and we’re so proud to support the Charlie Waller Trust in all they do.

“Good mental health and wellbeing are so important to us, and we care deeply that adults, carers and guardians can be empowered to provide the best support to children and young adults so that they can thrive.”

CV Villas has over 50 years’ experience as the leading villa holiday specialist. They offer hand-picked villas across Europe and beyond. Managing Director Peter Brudenell said: “We’re delighted to support the Trust and hope that providing this support to children and young people will give them the tools they need to look after their mental health now, through their transition to adulthood and their working life, and going forward.

Employees of the two companies will be able to get involved with some of the Trust’s exciting fundraising initiatives and will also have access to the Trust’s resource library containing a wide range of mental health topics.

Helen Franks, Corporate Partnership Manager at the Charlie Waller Trust, said: “We’re so excited to be working with Jules Verne and CV Villas and so grateful for their support. Our activity and events calendar is going to provide lots of great opportunities to engage with staff and help embed a culture of good mental health and wellbeing. Our training, workshops and resources are a lifeline for many families, and this partnership will help us to continue to make a positive difference to the lives of so many young people and those around them.”