This year's HOPEWALK, organized by the suicide prevention charity PAPYRUS, is scheduled to take place along Swansea seafront on Wednesday, May 21 at 5 pm. The University’s Campus Life team has been involved in hosting this event for the seventh time. The walk aims to raise awareness about suicide and inform people of the support available.
The organizers are inviting donations towards the charity's work and encourage students, staff, and others interested to join in the three-mile circular walk. Throughout May, PAPYRUS is organizing HOPEWALKS across the UK to highlight suicide issues among young people.
Sian Bengeyfield, Student Life’s mental health and counseling manager, stated: “Suicide remains the leading cause of death among young people in the UK. Our goal is to raise awareness and ensure that young people are aware of how to access the support available to them."
Bengeyfield added: “We are proud to support the vital and life-saving work that PAPYRUS provides to young people within our community."
She noted that although traditionally held in October, they hope the revised date will increase participation. The event offers an opportunity for a peaceful walk along the seafront and invites all public members since PAPYRUS's support extends beyond students.
PAPYRUS believes many young suicides can be prevented. They operate HOPELINE247, a confidential helpline for young individuals with suicidal thoughts or anyone concerned about someone who might be having such thoughts. Every £1 raised contributes toward funding a potentially life-saving contact through HOPELINE247.
The event will begin and end at The Secret Beach Bar and Kitchen on Mumbles Road, Swansea. Participants will walk to Blackpill and return. Interested individuals can register online or contact Carl Ely from the University’s Welfare@CampusLife team for more information.
Donations towards PAPYRUS's efforts can also be made online.