Islanders impacted by suicide are due to carry the ‘Baton of Hope’ during its visit to Jersey next month as part of the UK’s largest ever suicide prevention initiative.
The metal baton will arrive in Jersey on Sunday 28 September as part of a tour of 20 locations across the UK.
The ‘Baton of Hope’ is passed along by people who have been affected by suicide, including as bereaved family members and people who have attempted to take their own life.
Jersey baton bearer Lauren De Gruchy is carrying the baton in memory of her brother, who she lost to suicide.
“Grief after suicide is unlike anything else,” she said. “It leaves unanswered questions, deep pain, and a ripple effect that touches every part of life.
“It has shown me how urgent it is to break the stigma, open conversations, and ensure that no one feels they have to suffer in silence.”
Lauren added: “By joining this event, I want to honour my brother, stand alongside others who’ve been affected, and be part of the change that will bring more hope, compassion, and support to those who need it most.”
Dawn Burrows said she is carrying the Baton of Hope in Jersey to raise awareness of suicide.
“I am carrying the baton in memory of my late husband, who died by suicide four years ago and for my daughters who lost their father,” she said.
Local baton bearer Gemma de Biasi is carrying the Baton of Hope in memory of her mum, who she lost to suicide five years ago.
She explained: “Carrying the baton would give me the chance to walk for her, to keep her memory alive, and to show that even through loss, there can be light, strength, and a message that no one is ever truly alone.”
In Jersey, the baton will start its relay journey at Elizabeth Castle before making its way across the water to St Aubin.
It will then be carried back into St Helier, visiting various key sites throughout the town, before travelling west to St Ouen before completing its journey at Corbiere lighthouse.
The baton will travel to 25 locations in Jersey at the following times on Sunday 28 September:
- 07:45 – Tour starts at Albert Quay
- 08:20 – Elizabeth Castle
- 09:00 – St Aubins
- 09:35 – The Colour Rooms (bottom of Beaumont Hill)
- 11:25 – Pomme D’Or hotel
- 11:50 – States Chamber/Royal Square
- 12:25 – The Cenotaph
- 13:00 – Millenium Park
- 14:55 – The Lido
- 15:30 – Police HQ
- 18:35 – La Corbiere
