A youth suicide prevention charity has launched an appeal for £440,000 it needs to ensure it can continue to run its services normally, including its 24-hour support service for young people.

Papyrus Prevention of Young Suicide says it has launched the appeal for funding as struggles to maintain the running of its support amid rising costs and falling donations across the charity sector.

It has also been launched amid rising demand for its support. The charity has seen the number of text and email contacts from young people almost double since 2023 when its HOPELINE247 provision became a 24 hour a day service.

As of Friday 31 January the charity appeal had raised just under £9,000 since launching this week.



“Nothing is more important in life than keeping our children and young people safe,” said the charity’s chief executive Ged Flyn.

“We are here every minute of every hour, 365 days of the year, giving hope to those who are struggling with thoughts of suicide.

“We are only able to do this thanks to the incredible generosity of the public. Quite simply, donations and fundraising underpin everything we do.

“Regrettably, an unforeseen reduction in the voluntary revenue we receive means we are now facing real challenges in the way we deliver our vital services.”

He added: “Suicide rates remain stubbornly high and somehow we must overcome the obstacles we face; find the money we need and help our children and young people to choose life.”

One in five charities are cutting back on services they provide due to rising costs, according to research released by think tank Pro Bono Economics and Nottingham Trent University.

This month alone three charities have announced they are to close due to the financial problems they are facing amid falling donations, funding challenges and rising costs.

These are aid charities Women and Children First and Feed the Minds, and Chester Sexual Abuse Support Service.

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