ABF & Baton of Hope - A collaboration
At ABF, suicide prevention has become a core part of our work. It started with delivering safeTALK training and raising awareness in the very places where people live, work, and gather – from community cafés like Caffi Wylfa to support groups meeting at Pontcysyllte Chapel Tearoom. It’s through this work that we were introduced to the Baton of Hope, and we’re proud to now be the Lead Charity Partner for the Wrexham leg of the UK’s biggest suicide prevention initiative.
Our very own Business Development Officer, Zoe, has been working alongside Project Lead, Susan, who lost her son Daniel to suicide in 2021. Her daughter Charlotte carried the Baton in his honour during the 2023 tour in Newcastle, their hometown. When asked to be Project Lead in the 2025 tour after relocating to Wales, Susan chose Wrexham and was introduced to ABF by the Baton of Hope team - unaware at the time that Daniel had worked with ABF back in 2019. That serendipitous link has brought Zoe and Susan together in a way that feels both emotional and full circle.
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“It genuinely feels like Daniel brought us together. I’m doing this for him – but also to prevent other families having to go through what we have."
Visit our Baton of Hope Facebook page to see how the 2025 tour went! Or check out the photo album on Facebook here: Wrexham Tour Photos
More about Baton of Hope UK
The Baton of Hope is the world’s first physical symbol of mental wellbeing – a striking and beautifully crafted baton that’s passed from person to person, carrying with it powerful stories of loss, survival, and hope.
It was designed and donated by Thomas Lyte – the same world-renowned makers behind the FA Cup and other iconic sporting trophies.
Baton of Hope UK was founded by two parents who lost their sons to suicide and wanted to turn pain into purpose. Their aim was simple but bold: to get the whole country talking about suicide, to challenge the stigma, and to make prevention a national priority.
The Baton is now at the heart of a growing movement – helping to start conversations, raise awareness, and bring hope into communities across the UK.
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To find out more, visit their website here: www.batonofhopeuk.org
Finding the right support for you
If you’re struggling, or worried about someone else, there are a range of helplines and services available that can offer support, advice and someone to talk to. You don’t have to face things alone, and reaching out for support can be one of the bravest steps to take.
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If there is an immediate risk to life, please dial 999.
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, where trained professionals can offer advice, assessment and direct you to local crisis services.​
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Dial 111 and select option 2
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A confidential suicide prevention service for young people under 35, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone, text or email.
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0800 068 4141 / Text: 88247
pat@papyrus-uk.org
A free, confidential listening and emotional support service for anyone in Wales, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone, text or email.​
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0800 132 737
call@helpline.wales
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A UK-wide mental health support directory that helps you find local services, helplines and community support near you.
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A confidential listening service for anyone who is struggling, distressed, or feeling overwhelmed, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, where trained volunteers will listen without judgement.
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116 123
jo@samaritans.org
A Wales-wide wellbeing directory that helps you find local and national services, support groups and advice for yourself or someone else.
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A free, confidential service offering practical and emotional support for anyone in North Wales who has been bereaved or affected by suicide, providing trauma-informed support and guidance.
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07496 925 401
enfysalice@felin-fach.co.uk
A free, confidential text support service for anyone who is struggling or feeling overwhelmed, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with trained volunteers.
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Text: 85258
giveusashout.org​​
A free, confidential emotional and practical support service for anyone in Wales affected by suicide, offering compassionate support by phone, video call or in person.
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08000 487742
support@nals.cymru​​
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A confidential helpline for anyone struggling or in crisis, available 5pm–midnight, 7 days a week by phone and 24 hours a day via webchat.
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0800 58 58 58
thecalmzone.net
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A free suicide prevention app and website offering tools, safety planning and quick access to local and national support.
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stayalive.prevent-suicide.org.uk
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A free, confidential support service for children and young people under 19, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone and online chat.
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0800 1111
childline.org.uk
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If you feel our support might be right for you, Advance Brighter Futures offers a range of free services you can self-refer into. You can view our Service Schedule to see what’s available, with information on all of our services, along with referral forms and contact details.
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