The Baton of Hope is the UK largest suicide prevention initiative, and those affected or bereaved by suicide in some way carry the baton across a dedicated leg with stops along the way with events, activities, and entertainment. The Derby and Derbyshire event will be using this important platform to promote local charities and services that support mental health awareness and suicide prevention.
To help fundraise for the Baton of Hope event and the ongoing work of the charity, we're going to be holding the first (well we think it might be) wet sponge throwing event on Wednesday 20 August 2025 at County Hall.
Our Managing Director Emma Alexander and other members of the council's senior leadership team are taking part in this great event, so why not either come along and drench one of those or find someone in your team who might draw in the crowds!
The following participants are already signed up at the times shown:
- midday - Emma Alexander
- 12.10pm - Chris Henning
- 12.20pm - Joe O'Sullivan
- 12.30pm - Ellie Houlston
- 12.40pm - Claire Brailsford
- 12.50pm - Julian Gould
- 1pm - Ali Noble
If you'd like someone in your team to be sponged, please firstly check that they are willing to take part, and then complete a few details on this form. All we need is what 10-minute time slot you'd ideally like, contact information and details of the person you're nominating.
The event will start at midday with other fun activities happening along with the sponge throwing, so please come and support us.
If you have any questions about the event, please contact Charlie Greaves, email charlie.greaves@derbyshire.gov.uk