Suicide prevention charity launches emergency appeal amid funding crisis
PAPYRUS warns rising demand and falling donations could put its 24/7 crisis helpline at risk
A national suicide prevention charity for young people has warned it may have to cut back on lifesaving services due to increasing financial pressures.
PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide, which operates HOPELINE247—a round-the-clock crisis helpline—has launched its first-ever emergency appeal in a bid to raise £440,000.
The charity, which has offices in Glasgow, Aberdeen and Stirling, says a combination of rising costs and falling donations has left it facing an urgent funding shortfall.
Chief Executive Ged Flynn described the situation as critical, with record numbers of young people as young as seven-years-old reaching out for help.
Since HOPELINE247 extended its service to 24/7 coverage in 2023, PAPYRUS has seen an 86% rise in contacts via text and email, while webchat enquiries have surged by 66%.
“Nothing is more important in life than keeping our children and young people safe,” Mr Flynn said.
“We are here every minute of every hour, 365 days a year, giving hope to those struggling with thoughts of suicide.
“We are only able to do this thanks to the generosity of the public.
"But with a significant drop in voluntary income, we are now facing real challenges in delivering our vital services.”
PAPYRUS says demand for its services is at an all-time high, with hundreds of calls each week from young people in distress or from those concerned about them.
HOPELINE247 is staffed by trained Suicide Prevention Advisors who provide support to those at risk.
The charity warns that without additional funding, it may struggle to maintain overnight support—crucial hours when young people often feel most vulnerable.
“No child or young person should be alone with thoughts of suicide,” Mr Flynn added.
“Our work shines a ray of hope into the darkness, but we need help to keep going. Suicide devastates families, schools and communities, yet we believe many young suicides can be prevented.
“Everyone has a role to play. With public support, we can continue this vital work, because our job is far from done.”
PAPYRUS, which has hubs across the UK, says it is making a direct appeal to the public to help secure its future.
Donations to the emergency appeal can be made via justgiving.com/campaign/papyrusemergencyappeal
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