World Children’s Day is all about celebrating children and young people across the world. It’s about celebrating their differences, promoting togetherness and improving children’s welfare. The day was introduced by the United Nations General Assembly in 1954, and ever since the day has been an opportunity for children across the world to be recognised by their communities, societies and nations.
So, what can we be doing to support our children and push for better welfare this World Children’s Day? Improving welfare starts with raising awareness. Children, young people, mums, dads, guardians, teachers and other professionals can all play a role in promoting welfare and awareness for children’s rights. At PAPYRUS we know that many issues that affect young people’s lives can contribute to thoughts of suicide. Suicide does not discriminate, which is why we strive to raise awareness of the issues that may impact children and young people in every corner of each community across the UK – including mental health, bullying, and homelessness to name just a few.
How can you help? Awareness raising takes many forms! Have a bake sale, share a Facebook or Twitter post of a charity supporting young people, put up a poster or flyer, start a conversation. Get informed about services in your area who help children and young people – you never know when the people in your life might need some extra support. Most importantly: check in with your young people. Ask someone if they’re OK. Ask how they are feeling.
If you suspect that a child or young person you know may be struggling with thoughts of suicide, contact HOPELINE247 for advice and guidance – our HOPELINE247 team can give you advice on supporting them to stay safe and support you to access help with how they’re feeling. If you need help for thoughts of suicide that you are experiencing, give HOPELINE247 a call for confidential support.
Contact HOPELINE247 on 0800 068 4141, text 07860039967 or email pat@papyrus-uk.org
Opening hours:
Mondays to Fridays: 9am-10pm
Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays: 2pm-10pm
Our Suicide Prevention Advisors are here for you. If you need support give us a call.
