At DHU Healthcare, we are proud to be partnering with the local committee for the Baton of Hope Derby and Derbyshire, which is part of the UK’s largest-ever suicide prevention initiative.
The Baton of Hope was created by a suicide prevention charity to act as a national symbol – echoing the Olympic torch and shining a light on mental wellbeing. In 2025, the Baton will be carried across the UK with Derby and Derbyshire selected to host a one-day leg of the national tour on Saturday 13th September 2025.
Sara Smith, DHU Healthcare’s Finance Director and Chair of the Social Impact Committee, said: “Supporting Baton of Hope through our Social Impact Committee is about more than sponsorship – it’s about compassion, connection, and community. Suicide affects far too many families, and initiatives like this bring people together to talk, remember, and create change. We’re honoured to play a part in that.”
The day will feature a series of events across the city and county, alongside the Baton procession. Survivors of suicide attempts and those bereaved by suicide will have the chance to carry the Baton, in tribute to their own journey or in memory of a loved one. There will also be stalls, performances, crafts, and community activities throughout the route.
Claire Goring and Luke Oldham, Project Leads for the local stage, shared their thoughts on the initiative. Claire said: “Words cannot express how we feel about the importance of highlighting the long-overlooked issue of suicide. It is the biggest killer of men under 50 and women under 35, and there has been no improvement in the statistics for 17 years.”
Luke added: “Bringing the Baton of Hope to Derby and Derbyshire will significantly raise awareness and help reduce stigma surrounding suicide – which can prevent so many from asking for help. This tour will build on pre-existing events and support across the city and county, working closely with partners to work towards a zero suicide society.”
At DHU Healthcare, we’re committed to making a difference in the communities we serve. Our Social Impact Committee, which acts as our internal giving arm to support causes that matter, was proud to sponsor this meaningful local partnership.
We’ll also be joining the event on the day to show our support, help raise awareness, and walk alongside others in solidarity.
There are still opportunities to apply to be a Baton Bearer. Submit your application via the charity’s official website: https://batonofhopeuk.org/become-a-baton-bearer
For more information on the local event, fundraising, and how to get involved, visit batonofhopederbyshire.co.uk or follow @batonofhopederbyshire on social media.
You can also contact the local volunteer team at: batonofhopederbyshire.co.uk/contact