About the Fund
Why the fund was started
In the pain-filled months following Moira's death, as they awaited the trial of the killer, Moira’s family were bewildered, stunned and grieving terribly. They struggled on, each trying to help the other and they had wonderful support from family and friends. They did come to realise that they had resources enough to make some choices even though they could no longer go to work. They knew they had no control over the most important things in life but could afford to organise Moira’s Funeral, travel to the Memorial service, have a day or two away from home individually or together.
They became aware that many, in similar circumstances, would not have these resources and so could not make any choices, would struggle financially as well as emotionally. Statutory organisations and traumatic bereavement charities do wonderful work and help victims in practical and emotional ways. However, their funds are finite and restricted meaning victims sometimes may not get all the help they need and so suffer added distress.
Moira’s family received many beautiful letters after her death and her many friends spoke of her helpfulness and caring, her non-judgemental nature and help with all sorts of problems. The family put this together with the gaps they felt there were in the help systems available and decided that it would be very fitting to set up a grant-making charity in Moira’s name, The Moira Fund, so that those working with distressed families could provide for some of the those needs which would not otherwise be addressed. Working in partnership with other agencies The Moira Fund can provide the extra assistance that is not available elsewhere.
The Moira Fund makes grants to individuals referred through official organisations, the Police and Victim Support, and to those charities which care for families who have lost a loved one through murder or manslaughter.
The Moira Fund is wholly dependent on unpaid volunteers and fund-raising. The running costs are very low and any donation made will be used, almost entirely, to help those distressed through homicide.
Patrons
Elaine C Smith
“I am very touched that Moira’s family would consider me as someone they think could help this worthwhile cause. For too long the families of those who have been murdered have had few places to turn. I know that through the hard work of Moira’s family and this Fund that those going through the worst of times will find some respite and comfort.”
Angela Rippon
“Hu and Beatrice Jones are two very special people. It takes great courage and a deep reservoir of humanity to be able to turn a personal tragedy into a mission to help and support others. The death of their daughter Moira was devastating. But through The Moira Fund they hope to bring genuine support and comfort to other bereaved families. It is a great privilege for me to be Patron of their charity and to know that the spirit of Moira Jones will live on through the goodness and love of her parents.”
Dame Elish Angiolini QC
The Right Honourable Elish Angiolini QC who, as Lord Advocate of Scotland led the prosecution at the trial of Moira’s killer, was awarded a DBE in the 2011 Queen’s Birthday Honours List. When standing down from her role as Lord Advocate, Elish said that she was “truly touched” by the courage of Moira’s family and she wanted to contribute and support The Moira Fund. We are so pleased that Elish agreed to join Patrons Elaine C Smith and Angela Rippon OBE, and that we now have the wonderful support of three most genuine, caring and talented individuals.
Support The Moira Fund
There are a number of fundraising events being planned across the country in support of The Moira Fund. Please keep checking the site to see how you can support The Moira Fund in your area.
SupportDonate To Moira Fund
There are a number of ways to donate. Click below to find out more and also how you might be able to help fundraise. If you would like to Donate to the Moira Fund click below.
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