I am extremely fortunate to have been appointed Project Lead for hosting The Baton of Hope here in Oldham on September 26, 2027.
The Baton of Hope was established in 2023 by fathers bereaved by suicide and is the country’s largest suicide prevention initiative and national awareness movement.
It uses a specially designed physical baton and nationwide tours to break the stigma around mental health, unite communities and promote a zero-suicide society.
After being involved when the Baton of Hope, which is held every two years, came to Tameside in 2025, I decided to nominate Oldham as a stop for the next tour.
My application was selected, along with 20 others, out of 60 applications following a rigorous process conducted by the Tour Organising Committee.
This is a great opportunity to showcase Oldham in a positive light and a prime chance to raise awareness about mental health. I did not expect the application to be successful, but it was. This is a big deal for the borough and everyone we can help.
Each location is responsible for its own fundraising, so we will plan a variety of fundraisers as well as looking for sponsors and local support.
Baton Bearer applications are now open: https://f.mtr.cool/myw32dvltw
Becoming a Baton Bearer for our 2027 Tour is a chance to take your place in a national journey of hope, remembrance & connection.
Whether you’re carrying The Baton for someone you love, for your community, or for your own reasons, your presence can help make a difference. Applications are open until 31 January 2027, but there are a limited number of Baton Bearer places available for each location.
