Groups and organisations who support suicide prevention initiatives are invited to apply for grants of up to £1,000 from the Baton of Hope Legacy Fund.

It’s exactly a year since 100 baton bearers walked across Torbay to raise awareness of suicide prevention and mental health as part of the national Baton of Hope baton relay event.

More than £9,000 was raised through individual baton bearer sponsorship and from the Big Show of Hope gala fundraising event which took place on the same day at the Riviera Centre.

The Baton of Hope Legacy Fund is being launched on the anniversary of the relay event to celebrate the achievements of that day and build on the momentum of the people who came together to talk about suicide and mental health.

Projects that could be supported by the fund include:

• Community-based peer support groups
• Initiatives that tackle loneliness and social isolation
• Activities that increase community connection and belonging
• Projects supporting people affected by trauma or adverse childhood experiences
• Gender-based wellbeing and community connection initiatives
• Outreach and engagement work with underserved communities
• Awareness-raising, resilience-building and wellbeing activities
• Small pilot projects with the potential to grow or continue beyond the funding period

Councillor Hayley Tranter, Torbay Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult and Community Services, Public Health and Inequalities, said: “The Baton of Hope really did bring hope to the bay last September and showed what could be achieved when communities pull together.

“It’s vital that we do not lose that momentum and I’m pleased the fund is now accepting applications. The intention was always for grassroots organisations to benefit from the money raised so I hope community groups, registered charities and social enterprises consider submitting bids. They are at the forefront of local work to lead the fight for positive mental health and suicide awareness and prevention.”

Applications for projects matching the priorities of the One Devon Suicide Prevention Strategic Plan will score more highly.

Torbay Communities is overseeing the fund. To find out more about it and how to apply, visit the Torbay Communities website.

The deadline for applications is Wednesday 11 November and all projects must be completed by 30 September 2027.

A Baton of Hope anniversary walk and reflection service takes place this evening (Wednesday 30 September). Meet at Corbyn Head at 6pm. The walk starts at 6:15pm and will go to St Paul’s Church in Preston for a 7pm service.