UKCP responds to the closure of Papyrus

UKCP is deeply saddened by the news of the closure of Papyrus, a charity that has played a vital role in suicide prevention and in supporting children, young people, families and professionals across the UK for almost three decades.

The loss of a specialist charity with such experience and expertise is a significant moment for everyone working to prevent suicide and improve the mental health of young people.

Suicide prevention depends on a strong network of services, including charities, community organisations, schools, health services and specialist mental health professionals. Organisations such as Papyrus have helped to raise awareness, provide practical support and ensure that the voices of young people and bereaved families remain central to national conversations about suicide prevention.

This sad news also underlines the importance of significant investment in early intervention and mental health support. Children and young people experiencing distress should be able to access timely, appropriate support before they reach crisis point.

UKCP will continue to make the case for greater access to high-quality psychotherapy and psychotherapeutic counselling as part of a comprehensive approach to children and adults with mental health conditions. Qualified psychotherapists and psychotherapeutic counsellors play an important role in helping people understand and work through emotional distress and trauma within safe, therapeutic spaces.

Our thoughts are with the staff, volunteers, young people and families who have been supported by PAPYRUS over the years. Their contribution to suicide prevention has been profound, and its legacy will continue to influence the work of those committed to saving lives and improving mental health across the UK.

A word from UKCP's CEO

Jon Levett, Chief Executive Officer of UKCP, said, 'The closure of Papyrus is a deeply sad loss for the suicide prevention community. For many years, the organisation has provided specialist support, advocacy and expertise that has made a real difference to young people and families across the UK.

'This should also serve as a reminder that suicide prevention cannot depend on organisations operating under financial pressure. Sustained investment in early intervention and specialist support is vital and UKCP remains committed to working with partners across the mental health sector to improve access to safe, effective psychotherapy and psychotherapeutic counselling as part of a comprehensive approach to supporting people to access support when they need it the most.'

Further support and information:

• UKCP: How to access therapy in the UK
• The Mix provides free, confidential support for young people under 25. 
• Call Samaritans free on 116 123, at any time.
• Text SHOUT to 85258 for free, confidential support from Shout, 24 hours a day.
• For urgent mental health help, use NHS 111 online or call 111 and select the mental health option.
• Find local and national mental health services through the Hub of Hope.