DHU Healthcare was there to proudly sponsor and support the Baton of Hope as it arrived in Derby.
One of the UK's biggest suicide prevention initiatives, Baton of Hope has sparked vital conversations around mental health, tackling stigma, and working towards a society where suicide can be spoken about openly and prevented.
DHU played its part with volunteers welcoming the baton into Derby and coordinating the baton bearers who each carried powerful stories of loss, survival, and hope. On Cathedral Green, DHU colleagues joined healthcare partners to share information, raise awareness of the services we provide, and support conversations about mental health and wellbeing.
111 Deputy Operational Shift Lead Mackenzie Fearon provided crucial support at Pride Park, helping to arrange guest speakers before walking with the baton bearers from Pride Park to Ascot Drive fire station, offering emotional support and speaking with their families. Mackenzie told us: "It was incredibly moving to stand alongside people who were sharing their stories so openly. The courage and honesty of the baton bearers was an inspiration, and it reminded me how important it is that we keep breaking down the stigma around mental health and suicide."
111 Clinical Head of Continuous Improvement Kerry Collins added: "Being there as the baton arrived in Derby was a real privilege. You could feel the sense of community and shared purpose. Events like this bring home and emphasise how important it is to talk about our mental health and suicide prevention. It was fantastic to see DHU colleagues supporting both the Baton of Hope and the people we represent."
The event brought together communities, organisations, and individuals with the shared objective of breaking down barriers, offering support, and providing hope. As a not-for-profit, Community Interest Company (CIC), this mission aligned with DHU's CARE values, working alongside others to make a positive difference in the communities we serve.
Despite the rain, our teams stood side by side with local partners, witnessing moving, emotional, and inspiring moments. It was a privilege to be part of such an important day, one that truly highlighted the power of coming together to support one another and raise awareness of a huge issue affecting so many lives.
We would like to thank everyone who shared their stories, spoke with our teams, or were simply there to show their support. The baton moves on and together, we can make the difference to encourage more open conversations, and ensure that those struggling with their mental health know that they are never alone.
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