The Baton of Hope is the UK’s largest ever suicide prevention initiative. As part of the initiative, a symbolic baton representing mental wellbeing will visit a range of communities across the UK as part of a special tour promoting suicide prevention.
Organised by the Baton of Hope suicide prevention charity, the tour will visit 20 locations across the UK, arriving in Jersey on Sunday 28th September.
The baton’s visit to the island aims to signpost many of the support services offered on Jersey in the largest mental health campaign the island has ever seen.
With a route covering over 25 local locations, the baton will start its relay journey at Elizabeth Castle before making its way across the water to St Aubin. It will then be carried back into St Helier, visiting various key sites throughout the town, before travelling west to St Ouen before completing its journey at Corbiere lighthouse.
To keep up to date on the Jersey tour updates on social media, please join the Baton of Hope Tour25 – Jersey Facebook group.
Baton of Hope full route
Baton Bearer stories
In the run-up to the Baton of Hope tour, some of our baton bearers have bravely chosen to share their story about why they have chosen to be a baton bearer.
- Mike McCarthy – Chair of Baton of Hope
- Adam Hodgkins – Jersey Baton Bearer
Baton Bearers
Dawn Burrows
My name is Dawn Burrows, and my reason for taking part in Baton of Hope and being a baton bearer is to raise awareness of suicide. I am carrying the baton in memory of my late husband, who died by suicide 4 years ago and for my daughters who lost their father.
Lauren De Gruchy
I’m taking part in the Baton of Hope in memory of my brother, whose loss to suicide changed my life forever. Grief after suicide is unlike anything else. It leaves unanswered questions, deep pain, and a ripple effect that touches every part of life. It has shown me how urgent it is to break the stigma, open conversations, and ensure that no one feels they have to suffer in silence. By joining this event, I want to honour my brother, stand alongside others who’ve been affected, and be part of the change that will bring more hope, compassion, and support to those who need it most.
Gemma de Biasi
I’m taking part in the Baton of Hope in memory of my mum, who I lost to suicide five years ago. This cause is very close to my heart, and being part of it feels like a way to honour her life while also raising awareness about mental health. Losing her changed my world forever, but I don’t want her story to just be about how it ended—I want it to be about love, courage, and hope for others who may be struggling. Carrying the baton would give me the chance to walk for her, to keep her memory alive, and to show that even through loss, there can be light, strength, and a message that no one is ever truly alone.
