Papyrus suicide prevention charity closes after ‘extremely difficult period’

The youth suicide prevention charity Papyrus has collapsed into administration.

It comes after an “extended and extremely difficult period” in which the charity’s board of trustees and senior management tried desperately to secure its future, the organisation said in a statement.

However, rising demand, increased trading costs, and “a reduction in reliable funding across the sector” meant that a way forward could not be found.

“The Board concluded that the charity was no longer able to continue operating in such a climate, taking the decision to appoint insolvency practitioners in line with their fiduciary duties, Papyrus said.

Emma Mifsud and Charles Turner of Opus Restructuring & Insolvency have been appointed joint administrators.

Papyrus has worked to prevent youth suicide in the UK for nearly 30 years, through campaigning, education, training, and providing direct services.

“We are enormously proud of that work and of everyone – staff, volunteers, trustees, supporters and fundraisers – who has contributed to it,” the charity said.

“The joint administrators recognise the charity’s significant contribution and the dedication of its staff, volunteers, trustees and supporters.

“Their focus will now be on managing the charity’s affairs through the administration process and supporting an orderly closure. Further information will be provided as and when it becomes available.”

Simon Gunning, chief executive officer of the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), said that he is “devastated” by the news of Papyrus’s closure.

“They are a vital suicide prevention service offering critical support to under-35s – an age group for whom suicide remains the leading cause of death,” he said.

“Our thoughts are with the entire Papyrus team during this incredibly difficult time. We want to acknowledge and honour the extraordinary work they have done in youth suicide prevention, and the countless young lives they have saved.

“Our immediate priority, alongside our partners across the wider mental health sector, is working to address this urgent gap in crisis support in the UK.”

If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI) or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.

If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org to access online chat from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you.