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15 April 2024 | Firm News | Featured articles | Article by Stephen Webber

Hugh James announces latest charity partnership


We’re pleased to announce a new charity partnership with PAPYRUS, after employees in our Manchester office voted to partner with the charity for 2024.

PAPYRUS is a national charity dedicated to the prevention of suicide and the promotion of positive mental health and emotional wellbeing in young people. Suicide is the leading cause of death among individuals aged 35 and under in the UK.

Hugh James announces latest charity partnership

PAPYRUS firmly believes that suicide is preventable and offers a suicide prevention helpline, known as HOPELINE, to provide support and advice. Additionally, the charity delivers training programs and advocates for legislative changes to enhance suicide prevention strategies.

A firm rooted in community, our employees are well underway with the planning of fundraising events alongside an annual donation supporting suicide prevention and positive mental health in young people. Last year, the firm donated more than £30,000 for charity and stepped up its commitment to supporting the mental health of its employees with 17 mental health first aiders trained across its offices in England and Wales.

Ged Flynn, Chief Executive of PAPYRUS, said:

“We are delighted to be partnering with Hugh James and welcome the company’s valuable support. By working together, we will raise greater awareness of the vital help which is available to children and young people who are struggling with their self-esteem, self-worth and struggling with life itself.

“The partnership with Hugh James will help to pay for potentially life-saving calls, texts and emails to our confidential HOPELINE247 service, which offers support and advice to young people and anyone who is worried about a young person who may be having thoughts of suicide.

“The support will also help PAPYRUS to engage with local communities and volunteers in suicide prevention projects and support the training we deliver to individuals and groups. Suicide is the biggest killer of young people under the age of 35 in the UK and we must reduce the number 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. Together we must continue giving hope to young people who are struggling with life.”

Partner and Divisional Director at Hugh James, Stephen Webber commented:

“We are pleased to announce PAPYRUS as our national charity partner in the Northwest and to support the real difference they’re making to the lives of the young people who need it most. Mental health is so important, and we’re keen to do what we can as a firm to support our colleagues, clients and communities. I’m thrilled that our colleagues in Manchester have voted for a charity that really resonates with them, as we seek to create meaningful connections that make a difference in the regions are colleagues live and work.”

For practical, confidential suicide prevention help and advice please contact the PAPYRUS HOPELINE247 on 0800 068 4141, text 07860 039967 or email [email protected].

Author bio

Steve is head of one of the two divisions at Hugh James. This division comprises all of the teams which advise private individuals; both claimant litigants and individuals requiring advice on their personal finances and family. Steve specialises in high value medical negligence cases including cerebral palsy, spinal injuries, brain injury, psychiatric, obstetric cases and issues relating to human rights.

Disclaimer: The information on the Hugh James website is for general information only and reflects the position at the date of publication. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be treated as such. If you would like to ensure the commentary reflects current legislation, case law or best practice, please contact the blog author.

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