The event has been founded by Mikey Banks and Jason Beattie, whose shared experiences of mental health struggles and personal loss inspired them to turn a conversation into meaningful action.
Ruaraidh Britton Reporter
12:25, 16 Feb 2026
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Mikey and Jason will be hosting the special event this November (Image: Supplied)
Two Aberdeen men looking to raise vital funds and awareness for suicide prevention and mental health are set to host an inaugural black-tie charity event later this year after overcoming their own personal battles.
The event has been founded by Mikey Banks and Jason Beattie, whose shared experiences of mental health struggles and personal loss inspired them to turn a conversation into meaningful action.
Conversations of holding the event first came about while the pair were climbing Ben Nevis in June last year during a fundraising challenge for Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH).
What began as an idea during that walk has since grown into a fully realised charity event, with a clear aim – to bring people together, raise funds, and encourage open conversations around mental health and suicide.
Mikey Banks said the motivation behind the event is deeply personal. “I lived with addiction for many years and on 5 March 2022, I made the decision to end my life,” he said.
“I was not angry or emotional – it was something I had thought about for a long time. I felt I had no one to talk to who truly understood.
“By the grace of God, the police found me and treated me with compassion and kindness. That moment changed everything.”
Mikey has since found recovery and has been free from alcohol and drugs since 2022.
Jason Beattie’s motivation is shaped by the loss of his brother, Blaine, who died by suicide in December 2025, after experiencing his own mental health struggles.
“Blaine’s death had a devastating impact on our family and on everyone who loved him,” Mikey said. “Jason and I became even closer during that time, and we both knew we had to do something that could help others.”
Together, Mikey and Jason raised over £10,000 for SAMH through their Ben Nevis climb.
The Better Together Ball represents the next step in their fundraising efforts, with a focus not only on raising money, but on encouraging connection and conversation.
“This is about bringing people together in a positive, supportive environment,” Mikey added. “Yes, it is a night of food, dancing and fun – but it is also about reminding people that they are not alone, and that talking can save lives.”
The Better Together Ball, which will take place on Saturday, November 7 at Ardoe House Hotel, will bring together guests from across the north-east for an evening of elegance, entertainment and purpose.
The evening will run from 7pm until 12.30am and will include a three-course meal, live music, dancing, and a charity auction and raffle, with a range of prizes donated by local businesses and supporters.
Funds raised from the event will support mental health and suicide prevention initiatives, with further details on beneficiary organisations to be confirmed.
Members of the public, businesses and organisations across the north-east are encouraged to attend, support, and help make the inaugural Better Together Ball a success.
Tickets are priced at £92.80 (including booking fee) and are available via Eventbrite here.
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