The Baton of Hope is the UK’s largest-ever suicide prevention initiative, and in 2023 it launched its first nationwide tour, visiting cities across the country to raise awareness and spark vital conversations.
On 17 September 2025, the Baton arrived in Norwich for a one-day leg of the tour. The journey began at the Norfolk Showground and made its way through some of the city’s most notable landmarks – including the Sainsbury Centre, Plantation Garden, Chapelfield Gardens, and The Lanes – before reaching its final stop at Carrow Road. Over the course of the day, the Baton was carried by more than 40 inspiring individuals, each helping to shine a light on the importance of suicide prevention.
A team of volunteers from M+A Partners made their way to Chapelfield Gardens to help welcome the Baton and show support for this powerful initiative.
Despite the heavy rain, the atmosphere was one of solidarity and quiet reflection, as the team – along with many others – came together to mark the arrival of the Baton: the world’s first physical symbol of mental wellbeing.
Norwich’s leg of the tour was led by the Norwich Samaritans (who kindly kitted our team out in rain ponchos) in collaboration with local charities and businesses. Despite the downpour, a strong sense of unity prevailed, as individuals carried the Baton or spoke in honour of their own journeys or in memory of loved ones, sparking conversations around mental health and wellbeing.
Ellie Burton, Marketing Executive, said: “We were honoured to be part of such a meaningful event and to support in any way we could. Our team helped raise awareness by handing out leaflets and being a presence for those coming together to mark this important moment. A huge thank you to the Samaritans for looking after us and for the incredible work they do – the day left a lasting impression.”
