Karen Green Stewart lost her son Lamar to youth violence in 2017. In the aftermath Karen was shocked to find layers of red tape in accessing support for those who weren’t Lamar’s immediate family.
His best friend, his cousins and the shopkeeper who saw him every day – all of whom had strong and unique relationships with Lamar – were never offered any kind of bereavement support. When Karen advocated for access, she was shut down.
Now Karen is calling for change. Along with Safer London, UCL and Child Bereavement UK, we’re asking for anyone affected by youth violence related murder, regardless of when it happened to take part in research to unpick what support is and isn’t available in the aftermath of this tragedy, and whether this support is adequate.
This research will form the foundation of a model of support – one that is built on the voices, experiences, and opinions of those affected. A model built for those who need it, by those who need it.
But we can’t do this alone.
To actively shape the future of support, we need you. Your unique insights and experiences are incredibly valuable.
📌Who: Anyone in the UK who has lost someone to youth violence related murder – whether that be a sibling, other family member or friend 🧑🤝🧑 👫 (minimum age 13). The loss experienced can be historical. Regardless of whether the incident took place 3, 5 or 10 years ago, those affected are still encouraged to take part. Research interviews can take place individually or in groups of up to five people.
📌Where: Interviews will take place virtually and will last for approx. 1 hour 🖥️ 📱 Group interviews can also take place at UCL’s main campus (1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7JE), with travel expense covered (London participants only).
📌Why: This is an opportunity to make a real difference. Participants will receive a voucher for their time. Those who sign up can also access bereavement support from our Specialist Loss & Bereavement Advocate 🙌
📌How: Fill out the 👉online form👈 Anything you choose to share will be completely confidential We want to talk about the support you did or didn’t receive. You can tell us as little or as much as you want. Anything you say stays anonymous and can’t be traced back to you.
❓❔ Any questions? Drop Nneka an email at nnekaokafor@saferlondon.org.uk and she will answer questions you may have.
Thank you for being part of this important research. Together, we can pave the way for a better future and provide access to the support we all deserve.