Walking with the Baton of Hope

On Monday, Colin (our Managing Director) joined the start of the Baton of Hope UK tour in Blackpool – a powerful initiative raising awareness of suicide prevention.

As Colin shared:

I lost my niece and stepbrother to suicide the year before last – a grim topic, but one that everyone needs to be aware of so it can be talked about more openly. My wonderful sister carried the baton, representing hope, between several Blackpool landmarks along with several other families whose lives had been devastated. Far from being a depressing day, it was full of laughter, hope, and more than a few tears. People are incredible, and it was unbelievably moving to see how strong everyone can be when they’re open and vulnerable.”

The Baton of Hope is a national initiative designed to get people talking about mental health and to raise awareness of suicide prevention. The Baton itself represents strength, community, and hope. In 2025, it will tour 20 locations across the UK, encouraging open conversations and inspiring action towards a zero-suicide society.

Colin’s reflections are an important reminder of the importance of looking after your minds, keep them healthy, and to keep being kind to yourself. At TBL, we stand alongside Colin in supporting this message of openness, compassion, and resilience.

If you’d like to learn more about the Baton of Hope and how you can get involved, visit: batonofhopeuk.org/the-baton