A leading suicide prevention charity is launching a national fundraising challenge to support its lifesaving round-the-clock services.

Warrington-based Papyrus says it is continuing to receive a record number of contacts from children and young people who are struggling with life.

Throughout the month of March, the charity hopes as many people as possible will sign-up to walk, run, cycle, swim, row – or come up with their own ideas – to cover a distance linked to 247 kilometres.

Last year the charity launched an emergency appeal which succeeded in keeping its support services running through the night.

Fundraising Manager, Vicki Dutton, said:- “Thanks to the public’s generosity our Hopeline247 is here when children and young people need it most. However, this is a vital service which needs continuing financial support. So, will you help by taking on our 247km Challenge? It could involve covering two kilometres a day, 24 kilometres a week or 247 kilometres over the whole month of March, either by conventional means or by doing something a bit different.” 

Papyrus says demand continues to rise year-on-year for its Hopeline247 service which went round-the-clock in the summer of 2023. Since then the charity has seen an 86% increase in the number of contacts received via text and emails and an 88% rise in those reaching out via its webchat service.     

Last year’s 247km Challenge raised more than £30,000, helping the charity’s team of professionally-trained suicide prevention advisers to answer a lifesaving call every 14 minutes on average.

Vicki Dutton added:- “Our Papyrus fundraisers never cease to amaze us with their energy, imagination and resourcefulness and we know they’ll rise to the challenge and put everything into it. As the days continue to lengthen and the flowers begin to bloom, people want to get out there and enjoy the fresh air and get some exercise, so why not combine that with a challenge which will help to save young lives?”

To sign up for the 2026 challenge click here.