In a major step forward for suicide prevention across the UK, Baton of Hope has today announced the expansion of its community-led approach, with four new Hope Hubs being established nationwide.
Basingstoke has been named as one of the new locations, alongside Kent & Medway, Blackpool and North Lincolnshire, following the success of a pilot scheme in Sheffield over the past two years.
Led locally by Inclusion Education, Hope: Basingstoke will form part of this growing national network transforming the legacy of the Baton of Hope Tours into sustained, year-round action within communities.
Hope Hubs are the local community arm of Baton of Hope, raising awareness about suicide prevention, supporting communities, and promoting the charity’s pledges and national campaigns.
“Every step we’ve taken from the Baton of Hope event to the conversations happening on our Chatty Benches has been powered by a shared belief that talking about suicide saves lives.
Hope: Basingstoke is about making that belief part of everyday life in our community, led locally, with strong partnerships, and a shared commitment to keeping hope visible all year round.”
Originally created to support the biennial Baton of Hope Tours, these local groups are now becoming permanent fixtures ensuring the impact of the Tour continues long after the baton has passed through each town and city.
In Basingstoke, this next phase builds on significant local momentum, where the 2025 Tour brought together more than 130 individuals and 66 organisations, creating a powerful movement rooted in connection, conversation, and community-led action.
Hope: Basingstoke will be led and coordinated by Inclusion Education, establishing a permanent, visible presence for suicide prevention across the area.
The Hope Hub will:
Working alongside partners, organisations, and a local volunteer steering group, the Hope Hub will take a coordinated, community-wide approach to suicide prevention.
Each year, activity will include:
Further details, including how local organisations and partners can connect with the Hope Hub, will be shared soon.