Carrying the baton of hope

​On Thursday 2nd October in Hereford, I had the immense honour of carrying the Baton of Hope – a national symbol of suicide prevention and the world’s first physical icon of mental health. I wasn’t alone: my incredible mental health choir, Sing out Strong, was by my side, voices filling the air with music and love.

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The Baton of Hope

The Baton of Hope is the biggest suicide-prevention initiative the country has ever seen, travelling across cities to spark conversation and raise awareness. Its mission is simple but urgent: to break stigma, encourage action, and let people know they are not alone.
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This cause is especially close to my heart; my own breakdown and suicide attempt seven years ago led me to found Sing out Strong as a safe space where people could sing, share, and speak openly about mental health. Carrying the baton felt like a natural extension of that mission - a powerful symbol of hope and togetherness.

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The Day in Hereford

The day began with my choir singing “Proud” at the Old Market. At that moment, the enormity of the event hit us and we sang out for every life that has been lost too soon. Passers-by were brought to tears as the baton bearer made her way along the street at the head of the baton party, and the choir struggled to hold it together, watching the enormous procession of people, each of whom had been directly affected by suicide.  Later, we moved to Hereford Cathedral, where we filled the grounds with song before I was handed the baton itself.

When the baton was placed in my hands, the atmosphere was electric. The choir cheered, others clapped, and in that moment, everyone seemed to be holding each other up. All of the baton bearers were so welcoming and friendly and there was an unspoken bond - we simply got it. As I took my turn, walking at the head of the baton party, the choir sang me off. It was uplifting, deeply emotional, and full of solidarity.
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I had expected the day to feel heavy, but it was the opposite. Yes, there were tears, but they were tears of connection and love. Whenever someone faltered or a voice cracked, a hand was there to hold. I found myself grinning throughout, overwhelmed by the support of family, friends, and strangers alike.

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It's Time to Talk about Suicide

For me, this was about sending a clear message: you are not alone, even in your darkest moments. Carrying the baton was a reminder of why I do what I do - creating spaces where people feel seen, safe, and supported through the power of music and community.
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As I walked, I had what I can only describe as an out-of-body experience. I soaked it all in - the smiling faces of my choir, my family, my friends. I will never forget it.

​My hope is that this event sparks conversations about suicide and mental health, the hard stuff we often avoid, but desperately need to face together. Far too many lives are lost to suicide each year. The Baton of Hope is not just a symbol, it’s a call to action.  And we need to pay attention.

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How YOU can Help

For me personally, the day was lifechanging. To carry something so meaningful, surrounded by love, was a moment I’ll hold forever.

I urge everyone to do their part to end the stigma surrounding mental health and suicide and to start having those tough conversations.  If someone is acting different, or you notice a change, then ask them how they're doing.  And even if they say they're fine, ask again.

Death by suicide is preventable and you can help save lives.

​​If you’d like to support this vital cause, you can donate here.