You could join celebrities, sports personalities and politicians in being a bearer of the symbol of suicide prevention
The Baton of Hope is a national campaign to create hope for others and advocate for change in UK suicide prevention.(Image: The Baton of Hope)
A national symbol of suicide prevention will make its way to Hull next year – with locals sought to play a part. Hull is one of just 21 locations selected to take part in the relay around England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man throughout September and October next year. Mental health charity Hull and East Yorkshire Mind is playing a part in its reception and is calling for people to apply to be baton bearers.
Emma Dallimore, chief executive of Hull and East Yorkshire Mind, said: ” We are absolutely delighted that the Baton of Hope is coming to Hull. This is a huge opportunity for our city and something we want the whole community to feel part of. Our plans are still being developed, but our ambition is to make 18 September a real moment for Hull. We want to bring people together from across the city, start conversations that matter and send a powerful message about suicide prevention.
“We want the Baton’s journey through Hull to be visible, moving and full of life. There is lots more to unveil over the coming months, and there will be plenty of opportunities for people, businesses and community groups to get involved. For now, we’re incredibly excited that Hull will be part of the 2027 Tour and we can’t wait to show what our city can do.”
The Baton’s last outing in 2025 saw celebrities, sports personalities and politicians join ordinary people in carrying the symbol – with all selected because of their personal stories of bereavement or lived experience of the impact of suicide. It has been handcrafted by Thomas Lyte, a Royal Warrant holder as goldsmiths and silversmiths to His Majesty King Charles III, and makers of the Emirates FA Cup and other prestigious trophies.
Mike McCarthy, co-founder and chair of The Baton of Hope, who lost his son Ross to suicide in 2021, said: “This is one of the most difficult subjects to talk about, but the Tour is as much about life and hope as it is about death and despair. Even if we bring just the smallest glimmer of hope to someone, we have opened a door.”
Details about Hull’s plans for Saturday, September 18 – including the Baton’s route, surrounding events on the day and ways to get involved – will be publicised in the coming months. Those interested in becoming a Baton bearer can apply on the charity’s website.
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