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Suicide prevention charity PIPS Hope and Support, in collaboration with the Baton of Hope Tour, is calling on individuals in Newry and the surrounding areas to join in carrying the world’s only known physical symbol of mental health and suicide prevention.
The Baton of Hope, inspired by the Olympic torch, serves as a powerful parallel icon highlighting mental wellbeing and suicide prevention. This year’s national event will see the Baton carried across the UK, with Newry being one of the successful locations selected to host a one-day leg of the tour.
In addition to the Baton procession, a variety of community events will be organised, with details to be released in the coming months. The Baton will be carried by survivors of suicide, those bereaved by suicide, mental health advocates, and other community representatives, honouring personal stories of resilience and loss.
This initiative marks the UK’s largest single suicide prevention event, expanding from 12 locations last year to 20 locations this year.
PIPS Hope and Support CEO and Co-Lead, Seamus McCabe stated: "We are honoured to host the Baton of Hope in Newry on September 3rd alongside our partners, Lighthouse based in Belfast who have been supportive our application to host. This visit symbolises our charity’s unwavering commitment to suicide prevention while empowering our community to reduce the stigma surrounding suicide and raise awareness for mental health. We aim to honour those impacted by suicide and encourage hope and support for everyone in need."
Those who have been personally affected by suicide are invited to apply to carry the baton, whether affected through the loss of a loved one, surviving a suicide attempt, or working in mental health advocacy. This includes individuals from various walks of life – community leaders, emergency services personnel, sporting figures, and elected officials.
Padraig Harte, PIPS Hope and Support’s Fundraising, Marketing & Communications Manager, and Co-Lead for Baton of Hope Newry, added: "Hosting the Baton of Hope in Newry is an incredible opportunity to raise awareness and combat the stigma surrounding suicide, which often prevents people from seeking help. We are grateful to the Baton of Hope Tour for this platform and are working hard to ensure the event has a lasting impact. We urge local businesses, schools, sporting groups, and community organisations to get involved and show their support."
Those interested in carrying the Baton can apply through the Baton of Hope website: batonofhopeuk.org
Please note there is a £20 charge to process the application and supply a Baton of Hope T-shirt. If this cost poses a challenge, applicants are encouraged to contact PIPS Hope and Support’s fundraising team at fundraising@pipshopeandsupport.org to discuss alternatives.
