Charity Calls for End to Media Reporting of Bridgend Suicide

Added: (Wed Feb 06 2008)

Pressbox (Press Release) - With reports of another young death in the Bridgend area being attributed as a possible suicide, PAPYRUS, the national charity for prevention of young suicide, is calling on media to resist further coverage surrounding the recent tragic suicides in Bridgend.

Although this latest death is not yet confirmed as suicide, the charity
reiterates its concern regarding copycat instances. It is well known that
insensitive media reporting of suicide can prompt copycat cases, says the
charity.

"Media coverage must stop," said Anne Parry, chair, PAPYRUS. "We
believe there is nothing further to be gained. We are seriously concerned
that any more coverage would be counter-productive and exacerbate the
current state of affairs, with disastrous results. At worst it could lead to
further suicide attempts. We are asking media please do not draw further
attention to this situation. We are also calling on other charities to support
our initiative."

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About PAPYRUS

PAPYRUS is a national charity dedicated to the prevention of young
suicide, raising awareness that suicide is not necessarily the ultimate
result of feeling suicidal. Founded in 1997 by a group of parents who had
lost a son or daughter to suicide, it aims to support families friends, carers
and anyone else who works with young people in a professional capacity.

The charity's helpline - HOPELineUK 0870 170 4000 - is a confidential
telephone service staffed by trained professionals who listen, give practical
advice, information and support needed in order to approach and respond
to suicidal feelings, with the ultimate aim of preventing young suicide.

Editorial contact for more information: Rosemary Vaux, PAPYRUS press
office
tel 020 8943 5343 mobile 07792 72 62 41 email rvaux@ravenstonepr.co.uk