The Baton of Hope, the UK’s largest-ever suicide prevention initiative, is set to arrive in Norwich on Wednesday 17th September, as part of its nationwide tour raising awareness and inspiring action around suicide prevention.In the lead-up to this landmark event, on World Suicide Prevention Day (Wednesday 10th September), Baton of Hope Norwich is calling on local businesses and organisations of all sizes to show their support by signing the Baton of Hope UK Workplace Pledge – a vital step in making suicide prevention a priority in every workplace.With over 700,000 lives lost to suicide globally each year and more than 6,000 in the UK, the need for bold, proactive action has never been more urgent. In the UK alone, poor mental health accounts for over 17 million lost working days annually, costing employers approximately £56 billion.In Norfolk alone there are over 90 deaths to suicide each year, each one impacting around 165 individuals, that’s over 15,000 people – families, friends, workplaces and local communities that will be grieving each loss.The Workplace Pledge encourages organisations to:
- Eradicate stigma around mental health in the workplace
- Raise awareness of suicide and prevention measures
- Promote open dialogue and support among staff
- Make suicide prevention a key workplace priority
“We’re calling on businesses of all sizes to stand with us and take the pledge—because the conversation around suicide and mental health can’t wait,” said Anna McNeil, Project Lead for Baton of Hope Norwich. “This is YOUR chance to make real change: to break the stigma, to listen with compassion, and to build workplaces where people feel safe, seen, and supported. By committing to this pledge, organisations are investing in a healthier, more inclusive culture—one that values mental wellbeing, reduces absenteeism, and builds stronger, more compassionate teams.”Take the Pledge TodayLocal employers can register their interest and join the movement at:
? https://batonofhopeuk.org/workplace-pledge/register-interest-workplace-pledgeAny local businesses who would like to find out more are invited to email [email protected] for an invite to the Closing Ceremony event taking place in the evening of the 17th SeptemberLet’s stand together, make mental health a workplace priority, and help save lives.