On Sunday 12th October, five detectives from Lancashire Police’s Child Exploitation Department will be taking on the Manchester Half Marathon.

In our jobs, we work daily with some of the most vulnerable children and young people in society. We see first-hand the devastating effects of exploitation, abuse, and trauma — and sadly, the impact this can have on mental health. One of our biggest fears is losing young people to suicide, often when they feel there is no hope and no way out.

This is why we are running for Papyrus, a charity dedicated to the prevention of young suicide. Their life-saving support, guidance, and education gives young people hope, and equips families and communities to recognise the signs and step in before it’s too late.

We are driven to do this because we know just how critical early support can be. Too often, young people we work with feel trapped and overwhelmed — and the thought that suicide can seem like their only option is heart-breaking. Supporting Papyrus is our way of fighting back, raising awareness, and helping to give vulnerable young people a voice and a future.

Every step we take in this race is for them — and every donation, no matter how small, will help Papyrus continue their incredible work.

Thank you so much for supporting us