Portsmouth residents prepare for the Baton of Hope’s arrival in one month’s time, as local baton bearers reveal their personal stories and motivations for participating in the nationwide suicide prevention campaign.
The Baton of Hope represents Britain’s largest suicide prevention campaign, visiting 20 locations nationwide before reaching Portsmouth on Friday 26th September.
More than 100 local residents will carry the Olympic-style torch through Portsmouth’s streets. The participants include firefighters, emergency service workers, foster carers, local business proprietors, support workers, and others whose lives have been touched by suicide.
Their collective message centres on hope and recovery.
Jo, a Foster Portsmouth carer, author and entrepreneur, shared: “I survived suicide attempts 27 years ago as a severely unwell young mother. Fortunately, I received proper support, and during 25 years of recovery, I’ve accomplished considerable things. I’m carrying this baton to inspire others, demonstrating that life continues after mental health struggles. Support exists – if you’re suffering, please seek help.”
Simon from Mountjoy, one of several designated stopping points, explained: “I’m participating because my father tragically ended his life during my teenage years. My sister and I continue struggling with this reality. We aim to encourage dialogue about suicide and highlight how it impacts surviving family members. Our entire team will provide support.”
Sharon carries the baton honouring her mother Beryl and daughter Chloe Holland, who died by suicide following domestic abuse. Sharon campaigns for stricter legislation against perpetrators: “Sharing Chloe’s story remains crucial for raising awareness about women ending their lives due to coercive control and domestic violence.”
Benji, a mental health support volunteer, commented: “The Baton of Hope demonstrates tremendous courage from survivors and those who’ve lost loved ones. It serves as everyone’s beacon of hope, and Portsmouth hosting this year’s baton is fantastic – please support this initiative.”
The baton will visit Portsmouth’s major landmarks including the Mary Rose at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Portsmouth FC’s Fratton Park, Spinnaker Tower, and Victoria Park, the designated baton bearer village. Arriving from Basingstoke, it begins at Mick’s Monster Burgers on Portsdown Hill around 8am, travelling through the city before concluding at The Gaiety on South Parade Pier, Southsea.
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Numerous hubs operated by charities and organisations offering resident support services will line the route, hosting activities throughout the day for public participation.
Portsmouth City Council endorses the Baton of Hope initiative.
Portsmouth Lord Mayor Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson stated: “I’m honoured to join many baton bearers when the Baton of Hope visits Portsmouth on 26th September. Discussing suicide openly remains vital – ending the silence matters because whilst suicide devastates families, it’s also preventable.
“We must connect with those who’ve lost hope, helping them recognise life’s value – that’s the Baton of Hope’s essential message. I encourage Portsmouth residents to attend and demonstrate their support.”
Additional baton bearer stories and updates appear on the Baton of Hope Tour25 – Portsmouth Facebook page.
Portsmouth baton bearer hubs include: Paulsgrove Community Centre, Cosham Fire Station, Community Kettle, King George V Football Complex, Mountbatten Centre, Mountjoy, The YOU Trust, Ambition Portsmouth, Community Day Rehab, The Forge, MAKE, Spark Community Space, Southsea Fire Station, Southsea Library, C2U Gosport, Home-Start Portsmouth, Urbond, and Citrus.
Those affected by suicide bereavement can access Cruse’s dedicated service providing free, confidential support across Portsmouth, Southampton, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Contact 0330 555 0129 or visit crusenow.org.uk
