A free event is being held in Ripon on 21 January 2026, with the aim to help educate around the issue of suicide in young people, and the work of Papyrus.
Suicide can be an uncomfortable topic, especially if you have previously been around suicide, or with the thought that you have considered it.
Papyrus is a national charity, with a base in Ripon – James Parkes has led that local service for a number of years.
James Parkes, Area Manager for Papyrus said:
Ripon is my home town, and people would ask me what I did for living, and I thought running a session like this was a good way to explain.
The session is just about raising the profile of Papyrus and to increase awareness of suicide, along with suicide prevention.
It’s true that nearly everyone has a connection to suicide in some way, but not many have developed an understanding of it.
Papyrus typically provides support for people under 35, and that may be immediate support for those considering suicide, people that have attempted suicide, or those that have concern for someone, or been around suicide.
James Parkes, Area Manager for Papyrus said:
As a topic, it is perhaps not one that comes up very often in normal conversation, but it is about looking out for your friends and family.
This session is just an informal gathering, grab a drink, and just listen to the talk. It’s only a short session, with the aim of getting over some key messages.
It will help you understand on how to broach this as a subject, and that may be different to how you think you should.
You can just sit and listen, or ask questions or we can help provide further understanding or support.
This is for anyone and everyone – we are all affected by suicide.
For practical, confidential suicide prevention help and advice, please contact PAPYRUS HOPELINE247 on 0800 068 4141, text 88247 or email pat@papyrus-uk.org
See the PAPYRUS website
