Crisis doesn’t wait for working hours-PIPS Suicide Prevention Charity launches Weekend Crisis Hopeline

Campaigners gather at Stormont to demand change following the latest statistics from NISRA revealed that there were 290 registered deaths by suicide in 2024

PIPS Suicide Prevention Charity has today announced the launch of it’s Weekend Crisis Hopeline, providing regional overnight telephone support for people experiencing emotional distress or suicidal crisis across Northern Ireland.

Expanding on its existing Friday night crisis helpline, from Sunday 6th September, the overnight telephone service will also operate every Sunday night from 9pm to 9am, to ensure more people can access vital support when they need it most.

Available every Friday from 9pm until 10am and Sunday from 9pm until 9am, the Weekend Crisis Hopeline 028 9080 5850 (freephone 0800 088 6042) is delivered by trained crisis practitioners who provide compassionate listening, emotional support, safety planning and guidance to anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts, distress, or in emotional crisis.

Renee Quinn, Chief Executive of PIPS Suicide Prevention Charity, said:

“Crisis doesn’t wait for working hours, and neither should support. We know that some of the most difficult moments happen late at night and over the weekend, when people can feel isolated and unsure where to turn.

“By expanding our regional crisis telephone service to include Sunday nights, we are making sure more people across Northern Ireland have access to compassionate, professional support during those critical hours.

“No matter where you are in Northern Ireland, if you call 028 9080 5850 (freephone 0800 088 6042), you will be listened to without judgement. We want everyone to know that whatever they are facing, they do not have to face it alone. Reaching out for support is a sign of strength, and we are here whenever you need us.”

As a non-government funded charity, the expansion reflects PIPS Charity’s ongoing commitment to suicide prevention and ensuring that life-saving support is available when people need it most. The charity works across communities throughout Northern Ireland, providing crisis intervention, counselling, bereavement support, education and wellbeing services to reduce the impact of suicide and self-harm.

PIPS Charity is encouraging anyone struggling with their mental health, experiencing thoughts of suicide, or worried about someone they care about to contact the Weekend Crisis Hopeline 028 9080 5850 (freephone 0800 088 6042) during its operating hours. Early intervention can save lives, and every conversation matters.

If you or someone you know needs support, please contact PIPS Suicide Prevention Charity on 028 9080 5850 or Freephone 0800 088 6042.

If someone is in immediate danger or there is an emergency, call 999 immediately or attend your nearest Accident & Emergency (A&E) Department.

Discover how our Hopeline can support you.

Campaigners gather at Stormont to demand change following the latest statistics from NISRA revealed that there were 290 registered deaths by suicide in 2024