PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide has been offered free pitch-side advertising on one of the world’s most popular video games.
The charity’s logo – advertising its HOPELINE247 services – appears as a backdrop during the virtual action in Football Manager 2020.
PAPYRUS says the free advertising will help to reach more young people and prevent suicide.
PAPYRUS Chief Executive, Ged Flynn, said: “Reaching out in this way into the virtual world of a video game will allow us to engage with many thousands of young people who play it every day, especially those who may have thoughts of suicide.
“Away from the console or computer, suicide remains a tragic reality and the leading cause of young deaths in the UK.
“We believe many young suicides can be prevented and we will continue to strive to reach out to as many young people in whatever ways we can.”
Sports Interactive, the developer of Football Manager 2020, took to social media to offer free in-game advertising to charities in different countries which are helping people during Covid-19. The company says Football Manager 2020 has already attracted more than 123,000 gamers playing simultaneously.
Miles Jacobson, Managing Director of Sports Interactive, said: “This unusual period of isolation could have a serious impact on many people’s mental health and wellbeing, which is why we’re happy to help raise awareness of PAPYRUS through free pitch-side advertising in Football Manager 2020.”
Normally the advertising is sold to traditional corporate customers such as major motor vehicle car manufacturers.
“This generous offer of free advertising will not only raise the profile of PAPYRUS among thousands of video gamers as they relax and play but will ultimately help to save young lives,” added the charity’s Chief Executive, Ged Flynn.
HOPELINE247 is the charity’s confidential helpline service providing practical advice and support to young people with thoughts of suicide and anyone concerned about a young person who may have thoughts of suicide.
HOPELINE247 is staffed by trained professionals, offering a telephone, text and email service.
PAPYRUS aims to reduce the number of young people who take their own lives by breaking down the stigma around suicide and equipping people with the skills to recognise and respond to suicidal behaviour.
For practical, confidential suicide prevention help and advice please contact PAPYRUS HOPELINE247 on 0800 068 4141, text 07786 209 697 or email pat@papyrus-uk.org
