The Lady Dannatt MBE to Launch Baton of Hope Tour in Norwich on 17th September 2025

The Baton of Hope, a powerful nationwide initiative aimed at sparking the UK’s biggest ever conversation around suicide prevention and mental health, will arrive in Norwich on Wednesday 17th September 2025 — and will be formally launched by The Lady Dannatt MBE, Lord-Lieutenant of Norfolk and former President of the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association.

Lady Dannatt will officially send the Baton on its way during the Opening Ceremony at the Norfolk Showground. The baton will then journey through to the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts and on into Norwich before arriving at Norwich Cathedral, where it will coincide with the "Conversations Around Suicide" Conference, also featuring Lady Dannatt as a speaker.

The day’s events will culminate in a Closing Ceremony Celebration at Norwich City Football Club, where Lady Dannatt will be joined by a host of notable figures carrying the baton, including:

Tim Owen, co-founder of 3 Dads Walking

Clive Lewis MP

Susie Fowler Watt,  BBC Look East Presenter

Norwich City Football Club first team player (tba)

The Baton of Hope is not just a symbolic gesture — it is a national movement designed to challenge stigma, inspire action, and offer hope. Its journey through the UK highlights the urgent need for open conversation, accessible support, and meaningful change in the way we address mental health and suicide prevention.

“Every life lost to suicide is one too many,” said Lady Dannatt. “The Baton of Hope is an extraordinary initiative giving voice to the silent struggles so many face. I’m honoured to support this day of awareness and action in Norwich.”

"The Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association (RNAA) is proud to join forces with YANA and the South Norfolk Farming Community Network to host the opening ceremony of the Baton of Hope Norwich tour"  said Tracey Spelman,  Business Development for RNAA.  She continues:  "As the home of Norfolk’s agricultural hub, bringing together organisations such as Norfolk YFC, Norfolk FWAG and NORMAC — and with the Norfolk Food Hall based at the Norfolk Showground proudly showcasing the work of local growers and producers, there could be no better setting to highlight the importance of supporting our farming and rural community through challenging times".

Join us as Norwich stands together to break the silence, offer hope, and walk towards a future where support is always within reach.

Notes to Editors

Join us for the Baton of Hope Norwich Tour25 Opening Ceremony

Wed 17th Sept 2025 8:00–9:30 AM

Norfolk Showground, Norwich

RSVP now - https://ow.ly/MxQx50WAb1E

Issued by:
Hayley Gerrard
Volunteer for Publicity, Norwich Samaritans

Media Contact:
Anna McNeil
📧 anna@norwichsams.org.uk
📞 01603 558 298

NOTES TO EDITORS:

Further details visit the Baton of Hope Norwich website https://www.batonofhopenorwich.co.uk/ & follow Baton of Hope Norwich on Facebook and Instagram for updates on events taking place on the