The UK’s biggest suicide prevention initiative arrived in Milton Keynes today.
The Baton of Hope is the UK’s biggest suicide prevention initiative and is supported by thousands of volunteers.
During a 12-day event this summer, the special baton designed and crafted by goldsmiths and silversmiths to the Royal family will be carried across the UK by families and friends bereaved by suicide, journeying from Glasgow to London.
This morning (4/7), the baton arrived in Milton Keynes and started its relay around the city.
The Baton started at MK Rose where a ceremony took place in partnership with Samaritans, who said a few words. There was then a few words from Paul Chambers, co-founder and COO of the creative mental health charity, PoetsIn.
The relay then made its way to Ride High Children's Charity, for a procession on horseback around the grounds with a selected group of children and young people who are members of the charity taking part.
The 5asideCHESS Bus at Furzton Lake then escorted the Baton to Stadium MK. At Stadium MK, Mike McCarthy, co-founder of the Baton of Hope, said a few words alongside the Mayor and blue light services.
The Baton then made its way over to Red Bull Technology, where F1's Daniel Ricciardo escorted the baton through the campus.
Racing driver Daniel Ricciardo accepts the #batonofhopeuk on behalf of #RedBull in Milton Keynes. Daniel you’re a star. ⭐️ #SuicidePrevention @danielricciardo pic.twitter.com/owLsThX4Or
— BatonOfHopeUK (@BatonOfHopeUK) July 4, 2023
At 5pm, Harry’s Rainbow will welcome The Baton at the Tree Cathedral, with music provided by the wonderful Alina Orchestra.
The Baton will end its journey at the Peace Pagoda at 5:30, where The Scouts will welcome it in with a Guard of Honour, and where Mind BLMK and CHUMS will be available to talk to anyone about the support they provide for those bereaved by suicide.
The day will end with music on the Peace Pagoda stage, and some final words from Baton of Hope co-founder, Mike McCarthy.
