On Tuesday 30 September, three volunteers from Samaritans of South Devon will carry the Baton of Hope through Torbay to promote better mental health, raise awareness of the impact of suicide, and spread a message of hope.
The Baton of Hope is the UK’s largest suicide prevention initiative. Resembling the Olympic Torch, the baton is being carried across the country by suicide survivors and those bereaved by suicide. Torbay is the only area in the South West to be included in the 2025 route and the day is being organised by the Torbay Suicide Prevention Partnership.
Among the 100 baton bearers is Heidi Baker, Deputy Director of Training at Samaritans of South Devon.
Heidi said: “I am a very proud Samaritan and welcome the opportunity to put the spotlight on suicide awareness. This is something that we, as Samaritans, deal with on a regular basis. In fact, this is our main objective, to save at least one person from suicide, which we do daily.
“Sometimes we can send the emergency services, with the caller’s permission, and other times we can only listen and be the last voice that the caller hears. I find this is a great privilege as they have chosen the Samaritans to speak to, rather than family or friends, knowing that we won’t judge.
“On a more personal note, I am also doing this for a boy I used to teach when I lived in Spain. A very happy boy who always had a smile on his face and a cheeky quip for anyone who would listen. This boy grew up and had a child, a daughter who he adored. He was surrounded by a loving family, and he grew up in a beautiful part of the world. One awful day, his family couldn’t find him, and then they did. Their world collapsed especially as he appeared to have it all going for him.
“So, this is for him. For Alex. Say his name out loud so that he can never be forgotten.”
The walking route will pass through Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham, with events and activities taking place along the way. Visitors can follow the walkers on a live tour screen at the Event Village in Princess Gardens.
The day will end with a final celebration event at the Riviera International Centre, where Samaritans of South Devon will be present to raise awareness, and remind the community we are here if they ever need to speak to anyone. A small group of volunteers will be providing emotional support where appropriate.
Scarlett Baker, Deputy Director of Outreach at Samaritans of South Devon, said: “We’re incredibly honoured to be taking part in this event. It’s going to be a fantastic day, with several organisations partnering together towards one common goal: that fewer people die by suicide.
“Events such as this one serve as an important reminder that we shouldn’t shy away from talking about suicide, we should be shouting about saving lives. This isn’t tomorrow’s problem – we lose too many, too often, to silence and that needs to change.
“A special thank you to the event organisers, their colleagues and volunteers, and the brave Baton Bearers – it wouldn’t have been possible without you.
“Anyone can contact Samaritans for free, at any time from any phone on 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org. Whoever you are, whatever you’re facing, we’re here to listen.”
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