On September 3, the world’s “only known physical symbol of mental health and suicide prevention” made its way through Keady, Armagh as part of a full day event with PIPS Hope and Support.
This meaningful initiative is a symbolic honouring of personal stories of resilience and loss whilst also acting as a inspirational call to action.
Carried solely by survivors of suicide, those bereaved by suicide, mental health advocates and community representatives, The Baton of Hope – inspired by the Olympic torch – serves as a powerful parallel icon highlighting mental wellbeing and suicide prevention… and its mission is to challenge the stigma surrounding suicide and mental health by bringing people together to share hope and support.
The procession through Keady began at St Patrick’s High School where ABC Council’s Deputy Lord Mayor, Jessica Johnson carried the baton for its first leg of the journey into the town.
Baton of Hope founder, Mike McCarthy also attended the school where he spoke with the Deputy Lord Mayor about the Baton’s design and symbolism.
Designed and produced by Thomas Lyte – goldsmiths and silversmiths to the late Queen Elizabeth II, and makers of the Emirates FA Cup and other exquisite trophies – its design is “directional, pointing upwards from the foot to the top of the Baton”, representative of a journey of hope – “of moving bravely away from the darkness of despair and, with encouragement and support, discovering a way into the light and a brighter future”.
Despite the inclement weather, the streets were lined with High School pupils alongside pupils from St Francis of Assisi Primary School who all provided rapturous applause before joining the procession.
Everyone was then invited into the TMAC Centre for light refreshments and to speak with several partner organisations, charities and voluntary community groups who conducted talks, workshops and informational sessions.
The Deputy Lord Mayor then addressed the procession in the hall before introducing a symbolic tree planting – which will take place at a later date due to weather restrictions.
Speaking about the Baton of Hope, Deputy Lord Mayor Councillor Jessica Johnston said: “Suicide affects far too many families across our borough, and the Baton of Hope is a powerful symbol that together we can tackle stigma and promote hope.”
In Banbridge a host of activities, including sports, a petting zoo, face-painting and support services information stands were available at Havelock Park.
The Baton then finished its journey in Newry were there was a host of day-appropriate entertainment and a finale parade.
Speaking at the time of its launch, PIPS Hope and Support CEO and Co-Lead, Seamus McCabe MBE said: “We are honoured to host the Baton of Hope in Newry on September 3, alongside our partners, Lighthouse based in Belfast who have been supportive our application to host.
“This visit symbolises our charity’s unwavering commitment to suicide prevention while empowering our community to reduce the stigma surrounding suicide and raise awareness for mental health. We aim to honour those impacted by suicide and encourage hope and support for everyone in need.”
Support and advice is always available to those affected by mental health and suicide from PIPS Hope and Support’s website here.
