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.
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 earmarked for September 3, 2025.
This meaningful initiative is a symbolic honouring of personal stories of resilience and loss whilst also acting as a inspirational call to action.
The Baton itself was designed and produced by Thomas Lyte, goldsmiths and silversmiths to the late Queen Elizabeth II, and makers of the Emirates FA Cup and other exquisite trophies.
It’s design is “directional, pointing upwards from the foot to the top of the Baton”, representative of a journey of hope – “of moving bravely away from the darkness of despair and, with encouragement and support, discovering a way into the light and a brighter future”.
Carried solely by survivors of suicide, those bereaved by suicide, mental health advocates and community representatives, The Baton of Hope, inspired by the Olympic torch, serves as a powerful parallel icon highlighting mental wellbeing and suicide prevention – and its mission is to challenge the stigma surrounding suicide and mental health by bringing people together to share hope and support.
It is intended that the Baton will journey through Crossmaglen, Cullyhanna, Keady, Camlough, Kilkeel, Rostrevor, Warrenpoint, Banbridge, Newry and other key locations.
Speaking to Armagh I, Fundraising, Marketing & Communications Manager at PIPS Hope and Support, Padraig Harte shared his encouragement for the local community to get involved: “We will encourage local schools, sports clubs, and community centres to get involved, engaging young people and community leaders in the conversation.
“Suicide remains a major issue in Northern Ireland and initiatives like this help us to ensure that we are pushing the message out there that no one has to suffer in silence.
“The idea is to inspire action. The Baton of Hope really aligns with the work that PIPS Hope and Support does. There are many organisations coming together and we all want to show that we are here working together to save lives.”
On the day of the procession, PIPS Hope and Support are planning a number of events with partner organisations, charities and voluntary community groups from across the island of Ireland to provide informational sessions, guest talks and tributes, workshops and event appropriate entertainment.
In addition to the Baton procession, a variety of community events will be organised on the run up, with details to be released in the coming months.
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 3, 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.”
Seamus continued: “We invite those who have been personally affected by suicide, whether through the loss of a loved one, surviving a suicide attempt, or working in mental health advocacy, to apply as baton-bearers.
“This includes individuals from various walks of life – community leaders, emergency services personnel, sporting figures, and elected officials. This is a meaningful initiative, and we would love for you to be involved.”
Padraig 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: https://batonofhopeuk.org/become-a-baton-bearer/.
Please note there is a £20 charge to process the application and supply of 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.
PIPS Hope and Support are also encouraging corporate sponsors to come forward as there are a number of sponsorship opportunities available – including the option to help alleviate the cost to Baton bearers.
There will be an information day organised for Baton bearers closer to the time to allow bearers to get to know one another, to learn the route, the itinerary and guidelines.
There are a number of ways the community can get involved including the option to fundraise, hold a donation drive or through volunteering on the day.
For further information, please contact Padraig Harte at communications@pipshopeandsupport.org or call 028 3026 6195.
