The East Midlands bear hunt has taken place this week, much to the surprise of many. But worry not, there were no angry grizzlies on the prowl Teddy bears have been placed throughout the terminal for anyone to pick up and give to someone who needs a hug. Those presented with a bear are being encouraged to take it on their travels and photograph it.
The ‘random act of kindness bears’, which are being left in seats, restaurants, and other public spaces, has been a hit with passengers who are taking to social media to show their appreciation.
Lisa Kidd, from EMA’s health and safety team, says: “The bears have been a big hit with passengers. Most people will know someone who is struggling with a mental health issue. This provides an opportunity for friends or relatives to say to someone ‘we’re thinking about you and we’re here for you if you need us.’
Despite requests from passengers to buy the bears, unfortunately, they are not for sale.
East Midlands Airport has made mental health awareness the focus of UK Airports Safety Week, which coincides with Mental Health Awareness Week. Events ranging from fire safety to better understanding stress in the workplace and mental health and dementia awareness training are taking place all week. On Sunday 19 May, Rockchoir UK will perform a ‘flashmob’ of uplifting songs in the terminal to raise money for Derbyshire Mind.
As a visible sign of support for ending the stigma attached to mental health, the Green Ribbon Campaign logo is being projected onto the airport’s air traffic control tower each night. Staff are also wearing a green ribbon to show their support.
The weekends with a family-fun day at the Aeropark museum in Castle Donington on Saturday 18 May (12-5:30pm) with opportunities to meet Airport Police and the Air Ambulance team and watch a drive-by with EMA’s own fire team.
Recommended for you...