Overview

• Norwich hosted the nationwide Baton of Hope on 17 September, with more than 40 baton bearers moving through city landmarks before a closing ceremony at Norwich City Football Club.
• The city leg was launched by Lady Dannatt at the Norfolk Showground, highlighting support from local groups including Norwich Samaritans, YANA and the Farming Community Network.
• Campaign co-founder Mike McCarthy told attendees the goal is to turn open conversation into timely care, stressing the toll of suicide and the need for faster access to support.
• Suicide survivor and Norwich Samaritans volunteer Ben Handford carried the first leg, urging people to talk and seek help without fear of judgment.
• Earlier tour stops included a Leeds launch on 10 September featuring local partners and a recognised city plan, and a 15 September Hull event that ended with a candlelit vigil at the Humber Wellbeing Hub; the relay is scheduled to finish in London on 10 October.