Кomedик Томми Норт использует юмор для борьбы со стигмой самоубийств и собирает средства на помощь молодежи

A COMEDIAN is blending humour with hope. Tommy North, from Warrington, is using his comedy to raise awareness of suicide prevention. He will debut his first full-length show, Stand Up To Suicide, at the Morecambe Bay Fringe Festival in Lancashire on July 26, followed by the extended Carnforth Fringe on August 8. Mr North said: "I have worked in suicide prevention for a number of years and what I have found is that humour is such a powerful tool to build rapport, manage wellbeing and essentially keep people safe. "I want to give people confidence to talk about suicide openly and normalise conversations as well as reiterating the importance of reaching out for support. "I feel doing a comedy show about suicide will ensure people are engaged and remember the key messages I share. "I also just want people to come, enjoy the show and have a good time. "Laughter is the best medicine. "I am really looking forward to raising awareness about suicide and helping to smash the stigma which surrounds it in a fun yet safe and supportive way." Through the performances, he hopes to raise £500 for Papyrus, a national charity dedicated to preventing young suicide which also has its head office in Warrington. Funds raised will support the charity’s HopeLine 24/7 service, which offers practical advice and support to young people who are struggling with life and anyone who is concerned about a young person who may be having thoughts of suicide. The helpline is staffed by trained professionals and can be reached by phone, text, webchat or email. Papyrus also delivers suicide prevention programmes in communities, supports a network of volunteers, and offers training to individuals and organisations across the UK. Tickets for Tommy’s shows are available at https://www.skiddle.com/g/morecambe-fringe-festival/#events. Supporters can also donate in person at the events. For further information or to support Tommy’s fundraising efforts, visit his Papyrus JustGiving page under “Thomas North is fundraising for PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide,” or follow him on Instagram @tommynorthcomedy. Anyone in need of confidential help can contact Papyrus HopeLine 24/7 at 0300 102 2470, text HOPE to 88247, use the webchat at papyrus-uk.org, or email [email protected].