Town hosts 'ambitious' suicide prevention initiative

More than 50 people took their life in East Sussex in 2023

The country's most "ambitious" suicide prevention initiative, according to organisers, is set to reach an East Sussex town.

Hastings and St Leonards will be one of 20 stops on the Baton of Hope tour, which aims to raise awareness, reduce stigma around suicide and promote mental wellbeing.

There were 55 suicides in East Sussex in 2023, according to the Office for National Statistics.

Baton of Hope, a charity that focuses on suicide prevention in the UK, said Hastings had a high suicide rate "largely due to deprivation and high unemployment rates".

'Emotional day'

Events in Hastings on Tuesday will "remind everyone there is hope", said local organisers Hastings Voluntary Action and The Men's Room Hastings and St Leonards.

The nationwide tour, which started in Blackpool on 1 September, will see some 1,300 people affected by suicide carry an Olympic torch-style baton through the country.

Around 40 people will carry the baton on a 15-mile route through Hastings and St Leonards.

"The act will create a parade of... remembrance for those impacted by suicide," said Hastings Voluntary Action.

"The route is dedicated to Hastings and its people, celebrating what is creative and unique in the town."

It will be an "emotional day", said an organiser

Jacy Kilvert, Baton of Hope Hastings project lead, added: "The Baton of Hope will bring about change in how we approach suicide, how we talk about it and how we support those affected."

"I am sure it will be an emotional and meaningful day for all involved," she continued.

The tour is set to end in London on 10 October.