At P3, we believe in the power of hope, and we’re proud to stand behind a campaign that’s putting that belief into action across the UK. P3 is proudly supporting the Baton of Hope, the UK’s largest-ever suicide prevention initiative, as it makes its stop in Derbyshire. Inspired by the Olympic torch, the Baton is a symbol of strength and commitment to one of the most urgent public health challenges of our time.
The Derbyshire leg of the Baton’s journey will take place on Saturday 13 September 2025, with a procession through Derby, supported by a full day of community events, including stalls, performances, activities and moments of remembrance. Survivors of suicide attempt and those bereaved by suicide will be invited to carry the baton, creating space for honest conversation and community healing.
Our involvement in the campaign comes from a shared desire to spread the message to inspire individuals facing mental health challenges to seek mental health support, as 44 per cent of the more than 30,000 people who accessed our services in the last year benefited from P3 mental health support, and we know that now everyone seeks support.
As Mark Simms, CEO of P3 Charity, said: “At P3, we’ve always believed that hope is a powerful thing. That’s why we’re proud to support the Baton of Hope and everything it stands for. This isn’t just a procession, it’s an opportunity to challenge silence, to honour courage and to connect people with the support they deserve. Mental health isn’t a side issue for us: it’s at the heart of our work. If this baton helps even one person feel less alone, it will have done its job.”
Claire Goring, Project Lead for the local Baton of Hope team, added: “Words cannot express how important it is for us to highlight 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.”
Echoed by Luke Oldham, also Project Lead for Baton of Hope Derbyshire: “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.”
By standing with Baton of Hope, P3 Charity hopes to encourage those in need of support to reach out, either to P3 or to other support services.
You can find out more about the Baton of Hope or apply to become a Baton Bearer via the charity’s website.
Looking for mental health support in Derbyshire or your local area? P3 Charity can help. Click below to find a P3 service near you.