West Cumbria is one of the most beautiful places in England. It is also one of the hardiest. Everything appears more amplified more intense.
Big skies. Deep lakes. Rugged, breathtaking beauty. But that intensity is not just in the landscape. With great beauty there is a shadow side that pervades too.
Cumbria has one of the highest suicide rates in the country, around 50 percent higher than the national average. In parts of West Cumbria, it is among the highest anywhere in England.
This episode of Assa Marra features Lisa Birdsall. Oozing warmth vivacity and a formidable heart for her community. She has also been profoundly shaped by loss.
Lisa lost her brother Stephen to suicide. Out of that tragedy has come extraordinary purpose.
She is a trustee of Every Life Matters, supporting those bereaved by suicide and working to reduce stigma. In 2025, she led the Baton of Hope across Cumbria, the UK’s largest suicide awareness and prevention initiative.
Around 50 people carried the Baton across West Cumbria. Each with their own story. Each choosing to step forward and break the silence.
We also hear from Ken Johnston, one of the Lead Guides for the baton, sharing the lasting impact of being witness on that extraordinary day.
This is not an easy listen. But it is an important one.
A conversation about grief. About love. About what happens when people choose courage over silence.
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