Kent suicide memorial quilt goes on tour

A total of 66 squares for the quilt were created by people affected by suicide

An artwork created in Kent by those who have been bereaved by suicide has gone on tour.

The Kent Speak Their Name memorial quilt was organised by the parents of Stefan Kluibenschadl, from Margate, who died in 2022, aged 15.

It was unveiled when the nationwide Baton of Hope suicide awareness tour reached Dreamland in Margate on Monday.

Emma Kluibenschadl, Stefan's mother, said: "It was amazing to see all that hard work come together in this amazing tribute and I'm looking forward to people seeing it across the county."

The quilt went on display at Broadstairs Library on Tuesday and will remain there until 4 October.

It goes to the Houses of Parliament in London from 10 October for a week, before being moved to Rochester Cathedral.

It then tours venues around Kent until April 2027.

Tristan Kluibenschadl, Stefan's father, said: "The quilt is not just about remembrance, it's also a call for action.

"That's why it's wonderful that MPs will see it when it reaches parliament."

Ms Kluibenschadl said: "It was really hard to leave the quilt in Broadstairs.

"We'd put so much effort and energy into it.

"But we are really happy that other people will be able to see and experience it."

The quilt was unveiled when the Baton of Hope tour came to Margate on Monday

A total of 66 squares for the quilt were created by people affected by suicide in 10 workshops across east Kent between February and July.

The majority of those represented in the artwork are male, although the three youngest are all 13-year-old girls.

Mr Kluibenschadl said: "People have poured their hearts into this quilt.

"And they have entrusted us with their loved ones to raise awareness around Kent.

"It is such a taboo subject about which is why it is good to see people talking."

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this story you can visit BBC Action Line.