Monday 14-02-2022 - 06:00

In his book, ‘The Key to happiness’, Meik Wiking (2019), espouses the value of volunteering in increasing overall happiness. Volunteering is a great way to meet people, make friends, and help others.

 

I first started volunteering for PAPYRUS, the charity for the prevention of young suicide, in March 2021. The charity offers valuable training for volunteers and there are numerous volunteering opportunities. I participated in the recent HOPEWALK Cymru, enjoying a coastal walk in Llandudno; and I ran the JustGiving page for donations. I felt that, as a student at Glyndwr University, I wanted to join the ranks of those on campus who are working to create a Suicide Safer University, and also raise awareness of the good work that PAPYRUS does across the UK.

 

The charity runs HopelineUK, a dedicated helpline for people under the age of 35 who are having thoughts of suicide, or anyone who wants help and advice about someone under the age of 35. The contact details are phone 0800 068 4141, text 07860 039 967 or e-mail pat@papyrus-uk.org at any time between 9 a.m. and midnight, 365 days a year, to talk to a professional Suicide Prevention Advisor.

 

I am excited to announce that a new office is opening in North Wales and would like to encourage my fellow students to get involved. If you are interested, please take a look at the website Get Involved - Papyrus UK | Suicide Prevention Charity (papyrus-uk.org) or contact the Volunteer Co-ordinator for Wales: danielle.taylor@papyrus-uk.org

 

Written by Sarah Blackburn, Public Health and Wellbeing student at Wrexham Glyndwr University