A Kent man is calling on 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 – will involve 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 24 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.
New NHS England data recently revealed a worrying rise in suicidal thoughts, attempts and self-harm over the past 10 years. With a quarter of the nation now experiencing suicidal thoughts during their lives, Samaritans’ message is clear, and it’s urgent: Let’s prevent suicide today. Because tomorrow’s too late.
Bearing the weight
By taking his challenge to communities nationwide, Andy sparks meaningful conversations and reminds people that life’s burdens feel lighter when shared. In the past year alone, more than 1,800 people have taken part.
It’s tough, but it’s nothing compared to the invisible weight of life people carry every day. I’m doing this because I want people to know that life can feel really heavy and you don’t have to face your darkest moments alone.
Andy
A former caller and now a Samaritans listening volunteer, Andy’s final run for his Samaritans Awareness Day challenge will take place on 24 July in Hyde Park.
A digital community that cares
Support for Samaritans Awareness Day isn’t limited to the streets, it’s 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.
One in four people experience suicidal thoughts but not everyone has someone to talk to about it. That’s why this Samaritans Awareness Day, we are reminding everyone that our volunteers are here to lend a listening ear 24/7 to anyone in emotional crisis or feeling suicidal. We are here for people in their darkest hour. If anyone is struggling at the moment, remember you can always turn to Samaritans any time of day or night.
Sonya Trivedy, Executive Director of External Engagement
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:
- Donate or fundraise here
- Take on your own 24.7 challenge
- Share your support on social media using #SamaritansAwarenessDay
- Learn more about our work and how you can help at www.samaritans.org
- You can follow Andy Baines Vosper’s challenge on Instagram @sharetheweight247
For more information, or interview enquiries, please contact [email protected]
About Samaritans
- Every 10 seconds, Samaritans responds to a call for help.
- Samaritans volunteers are available round-the-clock to listen and support people with whatever they are facing. They won’t judge or tell you what to do.
- Anyone can contact Samaritans, free, any time from any phone on 116 123, even a mobile without credit. This number won’t show up on your phone bill. Or you can visit www.samaritans.org
- Samaritans is a charity and it’s the public’s kind donations and around 23,000 volunteers that mean we are always there for anyone struggling to cope. Find out how you can support us or volunteer with us.