PAPYRUS announces new suicide prevention community programme for North West

Papyrus charity presented with cheque for over £12,000 by the family of Ben Fitchett earlier this year

The national charity PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide has announced a new project that aims to reduce young suicides in the North West of England.

Suicide remains the leading cause of death in young people under the age of 35. The North West has one of the highest rates in England but, says PAPYRUS, positive wellbeing messages do encourage young people to seek help before it is too late.

This new PAPYRUS Suicide Safer Communities for Young People project will be led by young volunteers.

Karen May, PAPYRUS regional development manager, said: “Project lead volunteers will deliver suicide prevention activities, including workshops, information points and support campaigns that aim to smash the stigma of young suicide.

“By arming young people with the confidence and skills to recognise and intervene in suicidal behaviour we are building suicide-safer communities and improving the mental wellbeing of young people generally. We believe that hearing messages from their peers will encourage many more to talk about how they feel and, vitally, get help to see them through dark times,” she added.

Ged Flynn, PAPYRUS chief executive, said: “The generosity of the Big Lottery Fund and Simplyhealth is vital. In the UK suicide remains the main cause of death in men and women under 35. We have a big agenda: the support of these two organisations is helping us to save more young lives across the North West.”