The Baton of Hope is coming to Leeds
Leeds is proud to be hosting the Baton of Hope tour on Wednesday 10 September 2025 – which is also World Suicide Prevention Day.
The Baton of Hope is a powerful symbol that’s travelling across the UK to raise awareness about suicide prevention. It brings communities together to remember the lives sadly lost to suicide, while promoting a message of hope, reducing stigma and promoting help-seeking.
On the day, a baton will be carried across Leeds by 84 Baton Bearers, who are people who have been affected by or bereaved by suicide.
The route will visit places across the city that support wellbeing, including:
- parks and green spaces
- community centres
- creative and arts-based spaces
- events marking World Suicide Prevention Day
The route will end in East Leeds with a finale event, sharing a collective message of hope and thanks to everyone involved. It’s a way for the city to stand together and show our commitment to preventing suicide and supporting each other.
More details of the route will be made available on this site, nearer the time.
How to get involved
While applications to carry the Baton are now closed, everyone is welcome to join in on the day:
- come along to cheer on the Baton Bearers
- join in with community events along the route
- share your own message of hope online
Details of the route and events will be available closer to the date. You can also follow updates and connect with others on the Baton of Hope Leeds Facebook page.
About the Baton of Hope
The Baton of Hope is a national suicide prevention campaign. It was created by Baton of Hope UK and is inspired by the Olympic torch – but instead of celebrating physical performance, this baton celebrates mental health, community strength and recovery as it tours across the country, visiting different locations.
The Leeds event is being organised by a local partnership between Leeds City Council, Touchstone, and Leeds Mind.
Support is always available
Talking about suicide can bring up difficult feelings. If you’re struggling or worried about someone else, you’re not alone – support is available:
- Leeds Suicide Bereavement Service: For anyone affected by a suicide. Call 0113 305 5800 or email lsbs@leedsmind.org.uk.
- Find support in person, by phone or online on MindWell’s Need urgent help? page.
- Find support for children and young people on MindMate’s Urgent help page.
You can also:
- Download our foldable resource crisis card.
- Learn how to help someone who’s struggling.
Other ways of supporting suicide prevention work in Leeds
Want to do more to support suicide prevention in your community?
You can sign up to be a West Yorkshire Suicide Prevention Champion – helping to share messages of hope and reduce stigma.
Questions or media enquiries?
For further information about this event, including media enquiries, please contact BatonOfHope@leeds.gov.uk
