Emma Jones Walks with Purpose in the Baton of Hope Tameside Tour
On Friday 12th September 2025, Emma Jones, Funeral Director and owner of Perry Jones Funeral Services, proudly took part in the Baton of Hope Tameside Tour—a powerful national initiative dedicated to suicide prevention, awareness, and hope.
The day-long event saw over 50 individuals from all walks of life carry the symbolic baton through Tameside, stopping at key locations including the Anthony Seddon Centre, Stamford Park, Hartshead Pike, and Stalybridge Civic Hall. It was a day of reflection, courage, and community—a day when stories were shared, silence was broken, and hope was carried forward.
Emma’s Role: Carrying the Baton, Sharing the Message
Emma Jones was honoured to walk as part of the tour, carrying the baton through a portion of the route alongside bereaved families, mental health advocates, NHS staff, and local schoolchildren.
As someone who supports families through some of life’s hardest moments, Emma understands how important it is to talk openly about suicide, loss, and mental wellbeing. Her participation reflected both a personal passion and a professional commitment to breaking stigma, encouraging honest conversations, and showing that no one needs to suffer in silence.
“Being part of the Baton of Hope was humbling. It was a reminder of how powerful our community can be when we come together—not just to grieve, but to prevent future loss.” – Emma Jones
Baton of Hope Tour Tameside 2025
A Day of Hope and Action
The Tameside tour included moving moments of remembrance and inspiration: poetry readings, wellbeing workshops, and safe spaces for open conversations. The baton passed through diverse locations—schools, parks, community centres—bringing the message of hope to the heart of the borough.
Key highlights included:
Community engagement at The Anthony Seddon Fund, where local mental health charities offered resources and support.
Students and teachers from Samuel Laycock School joining in with powerful messages of support.
A reflective gathering at Stalybridge Civic Hall to close the day, where the community stood united in solidarity.
Why Perry Jones Funeral Services Took Part
At Perry Jones Funeral Services, supporting families through bereavement also means working to prevent future tragedies. As a local, independent funeral director rooted in compassion and dignity, Emma sees firsthand the devastating impact of suicide on families—and the importance of reaching people before crisis hits.
By participating in the Baton of Hope, Perry Jones Funeral Services:
Stood in solidarity with those affected by suicide.
Helped raise awareness of mental health resources in Tameside.
Reinforced their long-standing commitment to supporting the local community—not only in grief but in prevention.
Moving Forward: Keeping the Conversation Going
The Baton of Hope may have completed its journey through Tameside, but its message continues. Emma and the Perry Jones team encourage everyone to keep the conversation alive:
Reach out if you're struggling.
Listen if someone needs to talk.
Share stories—because they break the stigma.
Support local mental health charities and initiatives.
If you or someone you know needs support, organisations like The Anthony Seddon Fund, Samaritans, and Mind are here to help.
Emma Jones’ participation in the Baton of Hope tour wasn’t just about one day—it was about changing the narrative around suicide, showing up for the community, and proving that even in the darkest times, there is always hope.