PAPYRUS was founded in 1997 by Jean Kerr, a mother from Lancashire. She and a small group of parents who had each lost a child to suicide were convinced that that many young suicides are preventable.

The name, PAPYRUS, came from the original name of the charity, Parents Association the Prevention of Young Suicide. From those early days, people have joined the charity which is now the UK-wide membership organisation dedicated to the prevention of young suicide.

HOPELineUK is a specialist telephone helpline service staffed by trained professionals who give non-judgemental support, practical advice and information to

(1) children, teenagers and young people up to the age of 35 who are worried about themselves

(2) anyone who is concerned about a young person

They will listen to you in confidence and try to help you deal with your own suicidal thoughts or cope with someone else who may be feeling this way.

Call 0800 068 41 41 or email