On the Path to Hope
We Prepare to Welcome a National Symbol for Mental Health Awareness to Hastings!
We’re proud to share that the Hastings Online Times has published a heartfelt and in-depth feature about the Baton of Hope’s upcoming visit to Hastings – and how our project, Men Don’t Talk?, is right at the heart of this vital movement.
"The Baton of Hope is the UK’s biggest-ever suicide prevention initiative, travelling across the country to raise awareness, spark change, and give a voice to those affected by suicide. And in September 2025, it’s coming to Hastings."
A Symbol of Solidarity and Change
The Baton of Hope isn’t just a physical object—it’s a symbol. Designed by the same company behind the 2012 Olympic torch, it will be passed hand-to-hand across more than 12 UK cities, uniting communities in their shared mission to tackle the stigma surrounding suicide and mental health.
Suicide remains the leading cause of death for men under 50 in the UK. The Baton of Hope aims to confront this head-on, by encouraging open conversations, providing practical support, and calling for real policy change.
Hastings Steps Up – And So Do We
As highlighted in the article, local campaigners and community leaders in Hastings are already laying the groundwork for the Baton’s arrival. Among them are our very own team at Men Don’t Talk? and The Men’s Room Project.
Our work has been dedicated to opening up space for men to share, connect, and heal. With the success of our award-winning short film Men Don’t Talk?, the powerful performances in The Monologues of Men, and ongoing community dialogue, we’ve been creating a ripple effect that’s now being recognised on a wider scale.
The feature also mentions the positive response from council members and community groups who see this as a catalyst for meaningful, long-lasting change in Hastings.
A Community’s Moment to Speak Up
This isn’t just an event. It’s a moment.
As we move closer to September 2025, there will be opportunities for individuals, groups, and organisations across Hastings to get involved—from storytelling events and awareness workshops to mental health support actions and artistic collaborations.
If you’ve been impacted by suicide, mental health struggles, or you simply want to be part of a movement for change, now is the time to step forward.
Keep the Conversation Going
We are deeply grateful to the team at Hastings Online Times for capturing the spirit of what’s happening here in Hastings. Their article gives a real sense of the power and potential behind the Baton of Hope’s visit—and the strength of our local response.
📰 Click here to read the full story:
👉 Baton of Hope comes to Hastings – Hastings Online Times
Together, let’s continue to challenge silence, inspire action, and bring hope to our town—one voice, one baton, one story at a time.