Devon Partnership NHS Trust staff come together for the Baton of Hope tour
Members of staff from different services across Devon Partnership NHS Trust (DPT) will come together to show solidarity and support for the Baton of Hope when it arrives in Torbay on Tuesday 30 September.
The Baton of Hope is the UK's biggest suicide prevention initiative, founded by two fathers who each suffered a terrible loss. After connecting on social media, they became passionate advocates for creating change in the UK's suicide prevention policy.
Resembling the Olympic torch, the baton is a symbol of hope. It will be carried by various bearers across the UK, beginning its journey in Blackpool on Monday 1 September. The tour aims to raise awareness of suicide and encourage more open conversations to ensure those impacted receive better support.
Staff and volunteers from DPT will host a stand near the Pavilions in Torquay from 10am to 7pm on the day the baton passes through. They will be on hand throughout the day to speak with members of the local community, answer questions and offer signposting support.
Sarah from our TALKWORKS service will be one of the baton bearers in this year's tour. When asked why she applied to take part, Sarah shared:
I have worked in the area of mental health for many years and suicide prevention has always been a central part of my work and reason for doing this work. I have been impacted by suicide loss both personally and professionally during the last 30 years. I am passionate about the prevention of suicide and the need for support for those bereaved by suicide. I feel honoured to be part of the event and hope that change comes from raising awareness and encouraging people to talk about suicide. It's relevant to each and every one of us.
Find out more information about the Baton of Hope and details of how to get involved, on the Baton of Hope website.
How to access urgent mental health support
If you, or someone you love, is having suicidal thoughts or requires urgent mental health support, please call 111 and select the mental health option. You will then be put through to the Devon Partnership NHS Trust First Response service, available 365 days a year, 7 days a week.
Samaritans are available 24/7. They offer a supportive conversation around a whole range of mental health issues and also offer a call back service and follow up calls. You can contact them at any time if you are in need of support.
Contact Shout by texting 'Shout' to 85258 at any time of the day or night, 7 days a week. The number is free to message and completely confidential.
Staying Safe - This site provides vital 'safety plan' tools and guidance to help people cope with emotional distress. It also offers ways to help keep people safer from thoughts of harm and suicide, seek support and discover hope of recovery through powerful videos from people with personal experience.