Carrying Hope Through Community: Helen’s Baton of Hope Story

As the Baton of Hope makes its way through communities across the UK, it’s carried not only by hands, but by hearts and stories that matter. For Helen, a dedicated Community Volunteer with Mentell, taking part in this year’s journey feels like both a privilege and a powerful opportunity. Through her role, Helen works tirelessly to raise awareness of the safe spaces Mentell provides for men, and now, she’s stepping forward to carry the baton as a symbol of connection, compassion, and hope.

We sat down with her to hear her reflections on what this moment means and how it connects to her work supporting men’s mental health.

What was your first thought when you found out you’d be carrying the Baton of Hope through Tameside this year?

I honestly felt quite privileged to be selected.

How does this experience connect with the work you do at Mentell day-to-day?  

My role is all about raising awareness of the service that Mentell provides to the men within our communities, I hope that the event will further increase our visibility as a charity that supports men, and also the other charities that are involved with the Baton of Hope Tour - I believe we all have a common goal - to provide support to those that need it before they reach crisis.

What impact do you hope the Baton of Hope will have on men who see or hear about it?  

I hope anyone who is struggling with ill mental health will see that there are lots of charities and people out there working or volunteering to support people and their families in their time of need.

In your role as Community Volunteer, what are you noticing men need most right now in terms of support?  

To know that they really are not alone, that there are men out there that can support them, that can listen to them, that will not judge them.  I still hear people say that men won't talk, I really believe that men do want  to talk - they just need a safe space where they can, that is what Mentell are working hard to provide.‍

What would you say to someone who’s on the fence about stepping into one of our groups for the first time?  

Mentell know the hardest part can be walking through that door for the first time, the men in that circle have all taken that first step and keep coming back for a reason.  If it's not for you, you do not have to come again, but that circle and those men within it may just be what you need.

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