The Baton of Hope, a powerful UK-wide campaign to raise awareness of suicide and encourage life-saving conversations around mental health, will visit Cumbria on Sunday, 7 September.
Founded by Mike McCarthy and Steve Phillip after the loss of their sons to suicide, the baton will travel along the A66 from west Cumbria, stopping at Penrith before continuing to Carlisle later that day.
Both Cumberland Council and Westmorland and Furness Council are supporting the event as part of ongoing efforts to raise awareness of suicide prevention and reduce the stigma around mental health.
The baton’s journey through Cumbria will begin early at the Sellafield Centre of Excellence in Cleator Moor (7:30am–8am).
Later in the day, community events will take place across the county to promote wellbeing and bring people together, culminating in a celebration at Carlisle Castle (7pm–10pm) with live music, theatre, and a speech by charity co-founder Mike McCarthy. Free tickets for the Carlisle Castle event are available on Eventbrite.
More information regarding all of the events taking place across Cumberland can be found on the Baton of Hope website.
Councillor Justin McDermott, Cumberland Councillor and Portfolio Holder for Public Health and Communities said: “Suicide affects families, friends, and communities in ways that last a lifetime. The Baton of Hope reminds us that there is always help, always hope, and always someone who cares. By bringing this campaign to our region, we are shining a light on an issue that is too often hidden in silence. Together, we can create a culture where people feel able to speak up, seek help, and support one another without fear or stigma.”
Councillor Patricia Bell, Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Care at Westmorland and Furness Council, said:“The Baton of Hope brings a vital message – that it’s okay to talk about suicide. By talking openly and listening without judgment, and supporting each other, we can offer hope to those who are struggling. We also want to make sure that people know that help is available. The Baton of Hope is a powerful symbol of unity, remembrance and action in the fight against suicide.
“We know suicide rates across Cumbria are much higher than the national average. This is a chance for us all to come together, support one another, and ensure no one suffers in silence.
“We’re proud to be supporting this important event and we extend our thanks to the organisers and volunteers who have worked so hard to make this important event possible.”
This symbolic baton will be carried by around 50 individuals through Cumbria’s towns and communities — each one with a story, a purpose, and a shared commitment to breaking the silence around suicide.
Everyone in Cumbria is invited to come out and support the Baton of Hope as it passes through the county. Attend an event, cheer on the baton carriers, and most importantly — be part of the conversation.
The Baton of Hope tour aims to challenge stigma, improve signposting to help, and influence policy across all sectors.
If you or someone you know is struggling:
- Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7)
- Papyrus HOPELINE247 (for those under 35s): 0800 068 41 41