In support of the suicide prevention charity Baron of Hope tour’s arrival in the area, Basingstoke Sports Centre will be hosting a free community health event on Thursday 25th September, between 10:30am-2:30pm.
The Baton of Hope is the biggest suicide prevention initiative in the UK, and is going on a national tour of 25 locations with the hopes of raising awareness of suicide prevention.
Marie Greenhalgh, Relationships Director and Lead for Baton of Hope Basingstoke, says: “We have been overwhelmed by the level of community support for this event. We know that exercise can have a powerful impact on mental health and wellbeing which is why it was so important for us to ensure that Basingstoke Sports Centre – itself an iconic local landmark – was one of the key stops for Baton of Hope Basingstoke. We are so grateful for the support from the team to make this such a special stop.”
During the day, there will be a range of activities and events on as the Baton Bearers walk along the route, bringing the community together. Local residents will also be offered a range of free health checks, as well as physical and mental health advice. For anyone carrying the Baton, there is a free, 30-minute Mindfulness class available – which members of the public can also enjoy.
Local organisations – Parkinson’s UK, Diabetes UK, Age Concern, The Pink Place and Stroke Awareness Support Group – will also attend the event to offer a wide range of information and advice.
Stephanie Wallis, Basingstoke Sports Centre Community Sports Manager, says: “As a charitable social enterprise, GLL is committed to ensuring that its local communities are healthy, happy and connected and this event is a great way to bring people together. There will be something for all ages, so we encourage local residents to come along and support Baton of Hope at the same time.”
For more information please email: steph.wallis@gll.org
