The nationwide campaign arrives in the city on September 17, described as a “landmark moment for mental health awareness”.
The baton’s journey will officially be launched by the Lady Dannatt, the Lord-Lieutenant for Norfolk and former president of the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association, during an opening ceremony at the Norfolk Showground, where the rural community has been invited by the RNAA alongside mental health charity YANA and the South Norfolk Farming Community Network.
The baton will then be passed between more than 40 bearers as it travels through the city, stopping at key landmarks and community spaces including the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, Eaton Park, Norwich Samaritans branch, Chapelfield Gardens, Norwich Lanes and Norwich Cathedral – where it will coincide with the Conversations Around Suicide conference, also featuring Lady Dannatt.
The day will culminate in a closing ceremony at Norwich City Football Club, where the baton will be carried for a lap of the Carrow Road pitch by a member of the first team squad in a celebration also including baton bearers, community leaders and volunteers.
“Every life lost to suicide is one too many,” said Lady Dannatt.
“The Baton of Hope is an extraordinary initiative giving voice to the silent struggles so many face. I’m honoured to support this day of awareness and action in Norwich.”
Norwich was selected as one of just 20 cities across the UK to host the event, which is being led locally by Norwich Samaritans, working in collaboration with local charities and businesses.
Jane Brown, director of Norwich Samaritans, said: “We’re honoured to host the Baton of Hope and help shine a light on such an important issue. Every suicide leaves families, friends, and communities shattered by the loss. We believe this will be a landmark moment for mental health awareness in Norwich.”
For more details about the route and timings, see www.batonofhopenorwich.co.uk.