About The Fund
Why The Moira Fund has been established
In the pain-filled weeks and months following Moira's death her family became aware that they were coping because of their love for each other, the fantastic support of family and friends and because, in their grief, they could afford to make choices. Individually and together they spent a day or two away from home. Friends, by instinct not by training, became counsellors and, more recently, the family have been able to access specialist counsellors.
They became aware that many, in similar circumstances, would not have the resources they had and so could not make any choices. 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.
The family decided that it would be very fitting to set up a grant-making charity, The Moira Fund, so that those working with victims could identify and provide for some of the needs of those in distress 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 and, also, 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.”
Angela Rippon talks about the Fund
The Moira Fund Charity Ball from The Action House on Vimeo.
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.