On 31st May, the community came together for a powerful evening - Beyond Their Strength - an event rooted in personal grief but transformed into a shared mission for change.
The event was inspired by Susan, a mother bereaved by suicide, having lost her only child. In the aftermath of her loss, conversations with Julie, who had also lost close friends and previously raised funds for Darlington Mind, led to the vision for an event that would bring awareness, connection and support to others affected by suicide and mental health struggles.
The initial spark came from the work of Baton of Hope UK, a national movement advocating for suicide prevention and influencing change at a policy level. With their message in mind, Susan’s idea quickly evolved into a night focused on suicide awareness, intervention and prevention, alongside mental health and neurodiversity support.
A Night That Made a Difference
Thanks to the incredible generosity of attendees, donors, and volunteers, the event raised a remarkable £4,200. These funds were shared equally among four vital organisations:
Darlington Mind – Providing mental health support and services across County Durham and Darlington
Baton of Hope UK – Driving national suicide prevention awareness and policy reform
Daisy Chain Project – Supporting individuals and families affected by autism and neurodiversity
If U Care Share Foundation – Offering prevention and postvention support for those impacted by suicide
We at Darlington Mind are incredibly grateful to receive £1,050 from the event; funds that will directly support our ongoing work with individuals and families in need of mental health services throughout the region.
Thank You to Our Supporters
Events like this are only possible with the generosity, time, and commitment of many individuals and local organisations. We would like to extend heartfelt thanks to:
Performers and Contributors:
JD & The Woodsmen – for incredible live music
Gareth Stamp (DJ) – for donating his time and talent
Chris Daker (Compere) – for hosting the evening so generously
Papa Kel’s – for funding the catering pitch
Bishop Auckland Rugby Club – for refunding the venue deposit
Baccanalia – for waiving all ticketing service fees
Auction Donors:
Hymas & Hymas Trading Ltd
Gaz Miller (via Steven Colwell)
Tom McGuinness (via Corinne Aspel)
Pure Gym
The Gables Spa Retreat
Forget Me Not Flowers
Solan Connor Fawcett Family Cancer Trust
The Manor House Hotel
One Gym (Natalie Bunton)
B. Green
Special Thanks to Gareth, Kathryn, and Sharon for their unwavering support throughout the event planning and on the night itself.
If you or someone you know is struggling, we’re here to help. Visit our services page or contact us directly to learn more.
