This initiative is built around a simple idea:
A baton, carried from place to place.
The baton represents the carrying of the framework from place to place. Where practical, a printed copy or scroll may accompany it for visual reference, explanation, and public engagement.
A simple visual representation of the process.
A participant carries the baton forward, step by step, symbolising continuity, movement, and shared responsibility.
What the Baton Represents
The baton connects people across different areas with a shared purpose:
- to improve understanding
- to encourage participation
- to carry the message forward
It is a visible and consistent symbol of the initiative.
How It Works
The process is simple and repeatable.
The Process
- Begin your walk from a public location
- Carry the baton through your area
- Record your journey, if you choose to
- Go to your local council building
- Send the framework by email to the council leader, mayor, or relevant local representative using the template provided.
- Keep a record of the email acknowledgement or delivery confirmation.
The journey is then complete.
The baton is the official symbol of the initiative and may be provided to participants for agreed journeys. Participants are expected to take reasonable care of it while it is in their possession and to follow any handover or return arrangements provided.
Baton Journey Map
This map tracks the movement of the baton across the United Kingdom.
Each recorded journey represents a completed stage of participation, connecting locations, councils, and communities over time.
London is currently marked as the starting point.
As journeys are completed, the map updates to reflect:
- movement between boroughs and councils
- geographic spread of participation
- overall progress of the initiative
Use the planner below to explore a possible baton journey between areas.
Choose a city or area group first, then choose the relevant council, borough, city council, or unitary authority. Some UK cities are single-authority areas, so their list contains one council rather than separate boroughs.
Planned journey requests are not added to the public map automatically. They are reviewed first, and agreed journeys are confirmed before the baton is provided.
Total movement shown through approved baton journeys.
Journey requests are reviewed before publication. The public map shows approved journey records only.
This map shows approved baton journey records. New planned journey requests are reviewed before being added to the public map.
The Framework
The framework is shared digitally.
At each stage:
- it is sent by email to the relevant council
- this ensures direct delivery and a clear record
Email acknowledgement is often received through an automated response.
The printed version inside the baton is for visibility and conversation only.
Recording Your Journey Optional
You are encouraged to document your journey, but this is not required.
You may choose to:
- speak on camera
- explain your reasons
- record your walk and surroundings
- focus on the baton
- use narration only
You do not need to appear on camera.
The process itself is what matters most.
Consent and Use of Footage
By submitting footage to the initiative, you are allowing it to be reviewed and potentially used as part of public-facing material.
This may include:
- website content
- edited videos
- public sharing to raise awareness
Participation is voluntary, and you can decide how much you wish to share.
What You Need
You do not need professional equipment.
Required:
- a phone
- time to complete the walk
Optional:
- tripod or stabiliser
The baton and framework will be provided where participation arrangements have been agreed.
Keep It Simple
This initiative is designed to be simple.
It does not require:
- specialist equipment
- large costs
- complex planning
It is based on time, effort, and participation.
Take the Baton
The system continues because continuity matters. But when the public withdraws, the public voice weakens.
Each journey adds to something larger.
The baton moves from community to community, carried by different people, sharing the same message.
We inherited a voice. We should not hand the next generation a weaker one.
The framework gives participation clearer meaning.
Clarity is key.
Participation follows understanding.