Communities around the world come together today (10 September) to mark World Suicide Prevention Day. The day aims to raise awareness about suicide, promote understanding, and inspire action to create a safer and more supportive environment for everyone. This year's theme is again "Changing the Narrative on Suicide."

The day serves as a reminder of the universal challenge of suicide. Recent figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that 6,069 suicides were registered in England and Wales in 2023, the highest rate since 1999. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates more than 700,000 people die by suicide each year, which impacts families and communities.

While today is about awareness, Derby is also preparing for a major event. The city has been chosen to host a leg of the Baton of Hope tour, a nationwide initiative dedicated to addressing the stigma of suicide. The tour, which will see bereaved families and suicide survivors carry a symbol of hope, will arrive in Derby on Saturday, 13 September.

The local leg of the tour will kick off at Elvaston Castle at 7.15am, where a procession of motorbikes will escort the baton to the University of Derby. A series of community events will take place throughout the day, including a family fun day at Darley Park, an art exhibition at Derby Market Hall, and music and activities at Cathedral Green, where the tour is due to conclude at around 6.30pm.

Councillor Alison Martin, Derby City Council's Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Care, said the day provides a vital opportunity for action. 

This World Suicide Prevention Day, the opportunity to raise awareness and offer support is more important than ever.

If you're struggling with your mental health or know someone who is, there’s a network of support services available across Derby and Derbyshire.

It can be hard to find the right words to talk openly about how we’re feeling. But when someone is dealing with difficult thoughts or worries, having someone there to listen can make all the difference.

If you’re thinking about suicide or going through a personal crisis, help is available. You don't need to face these thoughts and feelings alone.

You can:

  • Reach out to a friend or loved one. They’ll be able to help you get the support you need
  • Mental health support is now available to Derbyshire residents of all ages through a new mental health support line. Call 111 and select option 2 ('mental health') – available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
  • Call the Samaritans 24-hour support service on 116 123 or contact Samaritans online
  • Contract PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide, by calling 0800 068 41 41, text 88247 or email pat@papyrus-uk.org. British Sign Language users can visit HOPELINE247
  • Call CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) on 0800 58 58 58. The free, anonymous helpline is open every day from 5pm until midnight
  • Text Shout to 85258 to access a free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging support service if you’re to cope. If you’re deaf, text DEAF to 85258
  • Contact your GP

If you need advice on how to encourage conversations with others in order to support them and yourself, you can find information via Let’s Chat Derbyshire.

See the full itinerary for the Baton of Hope tour in Derby and Derbyshire