Suicide memorial quilt exhibition coming to the Borough

A poignant memorial quilt created by families and friends of those lost to suicide will be arriving in the Stockton-on-Tees Borough in November. 

The 'North East Speak Their Name Suicide Memorial Quilt' features 120 individual fabric squares which have been crafted with love and care by more than 200 people to honour loved ones who have died by suicide.

Having been inspired by similar quilts in Greater Manchester and Yorkshire, the North East version was launched in November 2023 at Newcastle City Library by Tracey Beadle and Suzanne Howes.

It has since toured Tyne and Wear, Darlington and County Durham before it begins its time in Stockton-on-Tees in early November. 

The quilt will be on display at Stockton Central Library on Monday 3 November until Saturday 29 November, before moving to Billingham Library throughout December.

During March 2026, the quilt will be displayed at Thornaby Library.

As part of the exhibition, a book featuring the designs families and friends have made where they share their own stories, will be available to read.  

Councillor Lisa Evans, Leader of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, said: "We are immensely proud that the quilt exhibition is touring the Borough.   

"The creation of this memorial quilt highlights the devastating impact of suicide loss across our region, and it will not only strive to raise awareness, start conversations and encourage one another to 'speak their name', but also bring hope and healing to those who have lost loved ones.

"For anyone currently struggling with their mental health, there's a range of support available across the Borough."

Suzanne Howes, said: "We are delighted that the North East Speak Their Name quilt is now entering the third stage of its regional tour. Having spent two years in Tyne and Wear, Darlington and County Durham, it is now time for the Teesside tour to commence.

"We know that many quilt contributors are from Teesside and it will be hugely meaningful for the quilt to be exhibited in their home areas. Starting in Stockton on 3 November, our powerful artwork highlights the impact of suicide loss and encourages those viewing the display to reflect upon their own wellbeing.

"We know that the quilt is creating space for conversations around mental health and the impact of grief and loss. We would encourage people to visit our exhibition and explore the accompanying book that tells the story behind each contribution. It won't fail to have an impact."

Alongside the quilt exhibition, there will also be a special event at Billingham Library on Thursday 4 December, including a series of scheduled talks held in the library's meeting room, aligned with the residency of the Speak Their Name Suicide Memorial Quilt.

Stay tuned to the Council's social media channels for more information to come.

You can find out more on the memorial quilt by visiting the Speak Their Name website.