On Tuesday 30th September, the Baton of Hope comes to Torbay – a national movement raising awareness around suicide prevention and mental health.

The baton will travel through Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham, carried by 100 baton bearers, most of whom have been personally impacted by suicide. Alongside the relay, there will be community events, wellbeing activities, and a finale fundraiser at the Riviera International Centre.

For Ara, this is more than a day on the calendar. It’s a moment to stand proudly alongside others, carrying a message that sits at the heart of our work: every life matters, every conversation matters, and hope can help.

Why Ara is Involved

At Ara, we believe in creating safe spaces where people feel able to talk openly about their struggles. Too often, stigma and silence surround suicide, leaving people feeling unseen and unheard.

By walking with the Baton of Hope, we are helping to change that – together with our communities in Torbay and across the South West.

Our Baton Bearers

Three members of our team have been chosen to carry the baton in Torbay, each bringing lived experience and a deep personal connection to suicide prevention.

“Being a Baton Bearer is a huge honour. I lost both my sister and cousin to suicide, so this is deeply personal. At Ara, we know that open conversations break stigma and save lives.”
– Kai McConkey, Ara’s Community Engagement Lead

“Since joining Ara, I’ve received ASIST training and become more aware of suicide prevention, especially in diverse communities. I’m honoured to carry the baton and help others feel seen and heard.”
– Chaz Singh, Ara’s Community Engagement Lead

Their voices reflect Ara’s wider mission: building trust, breaking down barriers, and walking alongside people wherever they are in their journey.

Hope in Action: What’s Happening on the Day

The Baton of Hope isn’t just symbolic – it’s a rallying point for action, connection, and community. Across Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham, there will be a packed programme of activities on 30th September.

Much of the day centres on the Torquay Hope Hub at Princess Gardens, featuring stalls, activities, refreshments, entertainment, and a live tour screen.

Torquay Hope Hub highlights include:

• Opening Ceremony with South Devon Rock Choir: 7.30–8.30am
• Yoga: 8.30–9.30am
• Tai Chi: 9.45–10.45am
• Inspirational speakers: 10am–12pm
• Live music: 12.30–1.15pm
• Primary school choirs: 1.30–2.30pm
• Live music: 3–3.45pm
• Young inspirational speakers: 4–4.30pm
• Young artists from Sound Communities: 4.30–5.20pm
• Emma Pick acoustic set: 5.30–6.30pm
• Final baton bearer arrival with Drum Devon: 6.30pm

There will also be events throughout the day in Paignton and Brixham.

 View the full route and event plan

Children and Young People’s Takeover

Between 4–6pm, the Hope Hub will host a children’s takeover, supported by Tonic Creatives, Kick up the Arts, and Sound Communities. Activities include:

• Face painting
• Circus skills workshop
• Arts and crafts
• Giant games
• DJ and graffiti workshops
• Live music

The BIG Show of Hope

The day culminates with the BIG Show of Hope gala fundraiser at the Riviera International Centre. The event features:

• Comedian Hal Cruttenden
• X-Factor finalist Luke Friend
• Cabaret compere Ada Campe

The evening promises comedy, music, magic – and most importantly – hope.

Buy your tickets here – each ticket includes entry to a raffle with fantastic prizes. All profits go to the Torbay Suicide Prevention Legacy Fund.

Ara’s Commitment

For us, the Baton of Hope is not just symbolic. It’s a reminder of the work still to be done. Suicide prevention requires courage, compassion, and connection. It’s about:

• Starting honest conversations that challenge stigma.
• Creating safe spaces of support.
• Providing timely help so no one feels they have to struggle alone.

These are the values we carry every day in our services, from gambling harms support to community engagement.

The Baton of Hope reminds us that suicide prevention is everyone’s responsibility. At Ara, we remain committed to being there for every conversation, every connection, and every step towards healing.

Find out more about our services here: Ara Gambling Harms Services

Together, we can carry hope – and help save lives.