As suicide figures in England and Wales hit their highest rate since 1999*, UFC fighter Paddy Pimblett has made a significant donation to suicide prevention charity James’ Place.
James’ Place offers free, life-saving treatment to men in suicidal crisis at centres in Liverpool, London and Newcastle, and has helped over 2,300 men across the country to date. Men account for 75% of all suicides, with middle aged men most at risk. Suicide is the leading cause of death for men under 35.
Paddy has been a long term supporter of the charity and has made a donation of £25,000, which will enable ten men in suicidal crisis to receive treatment at James’ Place Liverpool.
Paddy said: “I’ve spent some time talking to the team at James’ Place and they are amazing at helping men in suicidal crisis. Receiving news that a friend took his own life because of mental health struggles made me realise I couldn’t stand by and do nothing with the public platform that I’m so lucky to have. The Baddy Foundation is building from the ground up and I’ll continue to help as much as I possibly can with the help of my loyal fans.”
Ellen O’Donoghue, Chief Executive of James’ Place said: “We cannot thank Paddy, and everyone who has donated to The Baddy Foundation, enough for their support. From the moment Paddy shared his own story of loss, he has supported James’ Place in our mission to reach more men and stop them from dying by suicide. Speaking out about suicide is so important, and this kind of support makes our vital work possible. We really are so grateful.”
Jane Boland, Clinical Lead at James’ Place said: “Paddy’s involvement with James’ Place has already had a huge impact, with many men in crisis particularly in Liverpool men actively seeking help because they have heard from Paddy that help is available. This generous donation from The Baddy Foundation will make a life-changing difference to the lives of ten men in Liverpool, helping them to come through their suicidal crisis and find hope for the future, and is a fabulous next step towards our long-term partnership.”
Graham Boylan, Paddy’s manager said: “The Baddy Foundation is in its infancy, but with the help of Paddy’s fans has made big strides. Partnering the foundation with James’ Place to financially support treatment for those that need it was a task we had given ourselves. Today we have completed this task. Now we move on to the next task whilst continuing to work with James’ Place.”
Men who receive therapy at James’ Place are in suicidal crisis largely driven by life events, such as a relationship breakdown, financial problems or bereavement. They are experiencing intense and distressing suicidal thoughts and have often made a plan to end their life, or already made a suicide attempt.
Men in suicidal crisis can contact James’ Place themselves or be referred to a centre by a professional including those working in health and community services, or by a friend or family member.
The centres, in Liverpool, London and Newcastle, are open Monday-Friday 9.30-5.30 by appointment only. To access support from James’ Place, make a referral or find out more visit www.jamesplace.org.uk.
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