Concern over access to children's mental health services in North Yorkshire
Campaigners are calling for more funding for children's mental health charities
There's concern about the number of children in North Yorkshire unable to access mental health support - because services are so stretched.
The suicide prevention charity Papyrus has had to launch an emergency funding appeal because of financial pressure.
"Where there is life, there is hope"
Pat Sowa from Harrogate works with them - after losing her son Dom to suicide in 2017.
"Their hopeline runs 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, because their funding's being cut that 24 hour service is at risk and every time that 24 hour services at risk, a young person might slip through the net."
She says it's absolutely crucial young people can get support when they need it: "Where there's life, there is hope, literally, and the vast majority of young people who go into crisis when they get to talk to somebody, who knows how to keep them safe, they stay alive, and the vast majority thrive and are really glad they do."
Since HOPELINE247 extended its service to 24/7 coverage in 2023, PAPYRUS has seen an 86% rise in contacts via text and email, while webchat enquiries have surged by 66%.
Chief Executive Ged Flynn said: "Nothing is more important in life than keeping our children and young people safe.”
“We are here every minute of every hour, 365 days a year, giving hope to those struggling with thoughts of suicide.
“We are only able to do this thanks to the generosity of the public.
"But with a significant drop in voluntary income, we are now facing real challenges in delivering our vital services.”
“No child or young person should be alone with thoughts of suicide,” Mr Flynn added.
“Our work shines a ray of hope into the darkness, but we need help to keep going. Suicide devastates families, schools and communities, yet we believe many young suicides can be prevented.
“Everyone has a role to play. With public support, we can continue this vital work, because our job is far from done.”
PAPYRUS, which has hubs across the UK, says it is making a direct appeal to the public to help secure its future.
Donations to the emergency appeal can be made via justgiving.com/campaign/papyrusemergencyappeal
What do the Government say?
A Government spokesperson said: "Children with mental health issues are not getting the support or care they deserve, which is why this Government will fix the broken system and ensure mental health is given the same attention and focus as physical health.
"As part of our Plan for Change, we will dramatically increase access to mental health support and create the healthiest generation of children ever.
"We will provide access to specialist mental health professionals in every school, recruit an additional 8,500 mental health workers, and we've already announced £26 million to open new mental health crisis centres."