This event took place in Manchester on 27 May 2023 and was a free family only entertainment, socialising pampering event for those affected by deaths in custody. It consisted of a 3-course meal and beverages, pamper zones, arts & wellbeing stalls, resident DJ and local performing artists. This event was essentially all about respite, entertainment, fun and pampering.

We opened with an appreciation to the families and introduced the Family Fund team to attendees, with each team member outlining their roles. Thanks were also extended to the attending stallholders, performers and the venue.

The event also screened a short spoken word film from George the Poet, an honest, compelling piece to mark the upcoming 6th anniversary of the Grenfell fire in London.

The event attendees marked a 72 second silence in remembrance of each of the victims.

Family Fund founder Tippa Naphtali said; "We wanted to ensure that this was not just yet another event where families were being asked to retell the stories of what happened to their loved ones, and thereby reliving their trauma. Instead, this was all about kicking back, having fun, and enjoying the company of others with lived experience and making connections."

Images from the event;

Here are a selection of photos from the 'Families Matter : Caring Matters' event.

What some families said;

Michelle Balogun

28 May 2023

"I would just like to say a massive Thank you for inviting us to the wonderful event yesterday in Manchester. We had a wonderful time and we enjoyed all of it. 

"The singers, poet and performances were amazing, the speech about the Grenfell Tower fire was very moving. We spoke to many people there and felt such a connection and empathy as we are going through similar experiences. 

"I also would like to thank you for the beautiful gift that was given to me, a beautiful one place and wax melt gift set from one of the stall holders, I was deeply moved by their kindness. Plus we can’t wait to receive our amazing prizes, £50 gift card, the T-shirts and framed masked picture, that my son plans to use in his new place when he gets it.

"I loved the workout and painting sessions, and the food was just amazing, so glad we got to take some home. 💕💕

"We haven’t been to many places as a family in recent months that have felt so rewarding as yesterday was, I thank you for giving us that experience. Plus the support you have all given us as a family, with the help towards my sons headstone, and the break away we have reserved for September at Dillon’s Den. I can’t wait to take my youngest there as he’s so excited to be having a holiday. 

"Thanks again for everything, it’s made life a little lighter for us and we couldn’t have felt that without your help."

Rohey Jobe

3 Jun, 22:43

"Thank you for the amazing day in Manchester.

"I’m having a hard time right now but trying my best as that’s all I can do.

"I've provided pictures with me wearing earrings from the Craftspiration jewellery stall at the pamper day! I couldn’t resist buying them!

"Thank you for inviting us."

A buffet of great food was also provided, and everyone ate together giving families, performers and the Fund team a chance to mingle and enjoy themselves over a tasty feast. The food was delicious and came in abundance, so many attendees were able to take containers home.

There was also a raffle where families won some really cool prizes that were taken from the Family Fund Two-Way Give-Back Shop.

Families and other attendees could also treat themselves to pampering activities which included face painting, t-shirt printing, nail & lash treatments, canvas painting and fun exercise sessions in the lovely sunshine. Other stalls included some impressive handmade children's clothes, jewellery, accessories and hand drawn art works.

This event included some amazing live performances from local artists throughout the day. There was spoken word poetry from Manchester based Griot Gabriel, beautiful singing from singer & musician Ellouise Bridge and her talented two-piece band, and we ended the event with some uplifting Reggae sounds from Easi B where everyone could dance and enjoy themselves. These artists all performed with positive messages of peace and empowerment.

The resident DJ, Ezeek The Meek, played sweet background tunes throughout the day creating a relaxing and positive environment.

The day closed with Tippa and the Family Fund team thanking everyone for coming and enjoying themselves, as well as reiterating that this event was put on for families to relax, have fun and take a break over the bank holiday weekend.

This event had been organised in cooperation with 4WardEverUK and Migrant Media, and was also supported by Naphtali & Associates and Catalyst 4 Change CIC.

National Memorial Family Fund – Ambitious plans for the future!

In 2022 the National Family Fund unveiled some ambitious plans for the future.

It is hoped that the new initiatives will be rolled out over the next 3 to 5 years.

Read full details here >