On Saturday, 4th October, Wrexham will become one of 20 cities across the UK to host the Baton of Hope – the country’s biggest ever suicide prevention initiative.
Challenging Stigma
The Baton of Hope UK tour began in 2023, founded by two bereaved fathers – Mike McCarthy and Steve Phillip – who lost their sons to suicide. Rather than allow grief to silence them, they chose to speak out, determined to challenge stigma and prevent other families from experiencing the same loss.
Their vision was simple but powerful: create a visible, national symbol of hope – a Baton – that could pass from hand to hand across the country, sparking honest conversations about suicide and mental health along the way. Now in its second tour, the Baton is making its way to Wrexham, where our city will be representing the whole of Wales on this UK-wide tour.
Here in Wrexham, the event coordinator is Lead Charity Partner Advance Brighter Futures (ABF). ABF is a mental health and wellbeing charity rooted in the local community, led by Project Leads Zoe Whitehead and Susan Dray.
In Memory of Loved Ones
The Baton will be carried through Wrexham by Baton Bearers whose lives have been touched by suicide. Some will be walking in memory of loved ones lost to suicide. Others will honour their own journey as a suicide survivor. Each Baton Bearer walks to spark hope, strengthen connection, and stand in solidarity – opening the door to more honest, compassionate conversations about mental health and suicide.
The day will also feature free community events at the designated Hope Hubs, including Chirk Castle and Ty Pawb. It will finish with a grand finale event and celebration at the end of the tour. Hope Hubs are welcoming spaces where people can gather, participate in creative activity, hear from special guest speakers, enjoy local entertainment, or simply take a moment to pause. Whether it’s music, art, storytelling, or simply a cup of tea and connection, each Hope Hub along the route will inspire and remind us that there is hope.
Zoe, Project Lead and suicide survivor, shared, “This is a community-led initiative from start to finish. It is driven by lived experience, supported by volunteers, and shaped by local people and places that have felt the impact of suicide. I know what it feels like to reach that point of hopelessness. But I also know what it feels like to come through the other side.
“It’s been a real privilege to be part of ABF’s work around suicide prevention over the past few years – supporting communities, raising awareness and opening up conversations around suicide. I’m proud to be bringing everything we’ve learned and built together into one powerful day for Wrexham.”
Serendipitous Link
Susan lost her son Daniel to suicide in 2021. Her daughter Charlotte carried the Baton in his honour during the 2023 tour in Newcastle, their hometown. When asked to be the Project Lead for the 2025 tour after relocating to Wales, Susan chose Wrexham. When the Baton of Hope introduced her to ABF, Susan was unaware that Daniel had also previously worked with ABF in 2019. That serendipitous link has brought Zoe and Susan together in a way that feels both emotional and full circle.
Susan, Project Lead and bereaved mum, says, “When we realised the connection between Daniel and ABF, it gave us both goosebumps. It genuinely feels like Daniel brought us together. I’m doing this for him. However, also to prevent other families from having to go through what we have been through. We’re already seeing the difference it’s making. People are opening up, sharing their experiences, and also starting conversations. That’s exactly what this is all about – getting people talking.”
Find out more at advancebrighterfutures.co.uk/batonofhope-wrexham or email Zoe on zoe@batonofhopeuk.org to find out how you can support the tour and play a part.
If you, or someone you know, needs support, the following helplines offer free, confidential help and support 24/7:
- Samaritans – Call 116 123
- Papyrus HOPELINE247 – Call 0800 068 4141 / Text 88247
- C.A.L.L. Helpline – Call 0800 132 737
- NHS 111 Mental Health Support – Call 111 and select option 2
- Shout – Text 85258
The feature image shows L-R Susan Dray and Zoe Whitehead, Project Leads for Baton of Hope, Wrexham.
We hope you enjoyed reading “Baton of Hope Takes To The Streets”. Click here for more of our articles about local charities.
