Bake Sale in Support of Samaritans Awareness Day – Wednesday 24th July

Samaritans Awareness Day takes place every year on 24 July (24/7), symbolising the charity’s core message: support should be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It’s a day dedicated to raising awareness of suicide prevention and encouraging people to check in with themselves and others - not just once, but regularly. 

Many people face difficult thoughts or feelings in silence. Samaritans provides a safe, confidential space for anyone who needs to talk, listen, or feel heard. 

Mental health challenges can affect anyone, at any time - and for students, the pressures of academic life, work, finances, and adjusting to new environments can feel overwhelming. 

Recent figures from the Samaritans show: 

• 5,656 suicides were registered in 2023 - an increase of 372 from 2022 

• Men aged 45-49 had the highest suicide rate at 25.3 per 100,000 

• The Northwest of England experienced the highest rate and biggest increase (14.7 per 100,000), while London had the lowest (7.3 per 100,000) 

• The male suicide rate was 17.1 per 100,000, significantly higher than the female rate of 5.6 per 100,000 

Please note that suicide data is based on when deaths are officially registered, which can often take over a year due to coroner inquests. 

These statistics are more than just numbers. They represent real people, real struggles, and a real need for support. 

The BPP Students’ Association, Centre Experience, and Wellbeing teams are coming together to host a charity bake sale in support of Samaritans Awareness Day. 

This is more than just a chance to enjoy some delicious cakes and sweet treats. It’s an opportunity to raise awareness around mental health and help fund the life-saving work that Samaritans do every day, 24/7. 

Event Details 

• Manchester Campus – Level 3, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM 
• Portsoken Campus – Level 3, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM 

We’ll have a variety of baked goods available to purchase, with all proceeds going directly to Samaritans. Taking part in the bake sale is a small act that can have a big impact. Here’s how you can help: 

• Visit one of the bake sale stalls on 24th July and treat yourself (or a friend) 

• Donate - every penny helps keep Samaritans’ phone lines open 

• Share the event with your classmates, peers, and on social media 

• Take a moment to check in on your own mental wellbeing and check in on someone else too 

At the Students’ Association, we believe that wellbeing is central to student success. That’s why we’re committed to promoting a culture where it's okay to talk about mental health, ask for help, and support one another - not just during awareness events, but all year round. 

To find out more about Samaritans Awareness Day or access mental health support through BPP and external organisations, visit our Students’ Association Get Help page. 

You can also learn more about Samaritans at www.samaritans.org.