Tag: Samaritans Awareness Day

‘Because tomorrow’s too late’: Samaritans Awareness Day challenge urges public to share the weight

A former Samaritans helpline caller and current listening volunteer is urging the public to help him carry his 24.7kg ‘bag of worries’ as part of a series of events to mark this year’s Samaritans Awareness Day.  

The challenge – part of a wider initiative that has seen Andrew Baines Vosper ‘Share the Weight’ with the likes of broadcaster Gabby Logan and fitness coach Joe Wicks, as well as Rylan, Dame Kelly Holmes, Denise Van Outen, Simon Squibb, Adam Woodyatt and Dr Alex George – has involved running at least 7km every day for 24 days in the lead-up to 24th July, all while carrying a 24.7kg weight on his back.

The ‘bag of worries’ serves as a powerful symbol of the emotional burdens many people carry in silence.  

Thursday 24th July 2025 is a moment to highlight the life-saving power of human connection, and to remind everyone that help is always available, 24/7. In the lead-up to the day, supporters are stepping up and taking on inspiring challenges to raise vital funds and awareness for the suicide prevention charity. 

In Scotland, Neil Beattie, a Shetland-based Council team-leader, will be taking on an Everest sized cycle and meeting Samaritans volunteers across Scotland’s towns and cities to raise funds for Samaritans Scotland.  

Neil’s challenge will take him from Shetland to Selkirk and back again, through some of Scotland’s toughest terrains on a two-week journey. Throughout the (roughly) 1200-mile cycle, Neil will accumulate a climb of more than 30,000 feet, higher than the world’s tallest mountain.  

Having completed charity bike rides previously, including from Land’s End to John O’ Groats and in Vietnam, this particular challenge holds a significant place in Neil’s heart.

Neil said:  “My mum was previously the Regional Director at Samaritans Scotland, and dedicated numerous years as a volunteer to the charity and their mission to see fewer deaths by suicide in Scotland.  

“Any donation, big or small will help someone with suicidal thoughts get help when they need it most.”  

Neil is set to depart from Lerwick on the 23rd of July, cycling to the ferry port where he will set sail for the mainland to continue his journey down through the country to the Borders, then heading up to Orkney and finally back to Shetland again, meeting with volunteers all along the way.  

A fundraising page has been set up here where you can make a donation to support Neil’s huge effort and the vital work of Samaritans Scotland.  By donating to Neil’s fundraiser, you are helping someone with suicidal thoughts to talk to somebody who will listen in their most difficult moments.  

These challenges over Samaritans Awareness Day spark meaningful conversations and reminds people that life’s burdens feel lighter when shared, and the tough climbs we face are easier when we break them down bit by bit.  

Support for Samaritans Awareness Day is thriving online, too. From 24-26 July, a number of content creators will be going live on platforms like Twitch and YouTube to celebrate Samaritans and raise vital funds. They’ll be connecting with their communities through gameplay, creative challenges, art, and more.  

The line-up includes streams from The Butterflies Stream Team, who are lending their support throughout the event, and popular creator Dawko, who will use his stream on 26 July to kick off his fundraising for the 2026 London Marathon.  

Together, these creators will spark important conversations around mental health and suicide, while raising awareness and funds through personal stories, community engagement, and unique online experiences.  

Neil Mathers, Executive Director at Samaritans Scotland, said: “Not everyone has someone they can talk to about how they’re feeling. That’s why on Samaritans Awareness Day, we are reminding everyone that they are not alone, and they have someone to turn to in us. 

“Our volunteers are here to lend a listening ear 24/7 to anyone in emotional crisis or feeling suicidal. We’re here for people in their darkest hour. Remember you can call our listening service on 116 123, any time of day or night.” 

Danielle Rowley, Head of Policy and Communications at Samaritans Scotland, said: “We know that people across Scotland struggle with suicidal thoughts and feelings and self-harm.  

“That’s why Samaritans Scotland is committed to reducing lives lost to suicide by working with the Scottish Government, COSLA, and partners across the sector as part of Creating Hope Together, the national suicide prevention strategy.” 

Getting involved 

Be it running, streaming, donating, or simply talking to a friend who’s having a tough time, you can help Samaritans be there for the people who need it most.  

This Samaritans Awareness Day, anyone can join in to prevent suicide today. Because tomorrow’s too late.  

How to get involved: