Last week, Alfie’s Squad welcomed supporters to its launch event, an unforgettable night celebrating its new headquarters in the Baltic Triangle, Liverpool.

The evening brought together supporters, businesses, and community members to highlight the incredible impact being made for children, young people, and their families, who have been bereaved by suicide.

The event was a significant milestone for the organisation, which was founded by now 16 year old Alfie after losing his dad to suicide at just eight years old. Determined to help others, he has spent the years since fundraising and raising awareness of the urgent need for tailored support for families in similar situations.

Launched less than two years ago, Alfie’s Squad has grown into the UK’s only peer support group dedicated to children and young people (ages 6-17) facing this unimaginable grief. Its weekly face to face group is now attended by up to 50 children and young people, who have the chance to build confidence and reduce isolation through fun and engaging activities.

On the night, guests heard firsthand about the impact of Alfie’s Squad through emotional and inspiring talks from Alfie himself, patron and former England and Liverpool goalkeeper Chris Kirkland, Vicky, a parent who attends sessions with her family and Professor Pooja Saini for Suicide and Self-harm Prevention, who has been conducting research with Alfie’s Squad. Their words reinforced the importance of peer support network that has helped families find friendship.

Alfie’s Squad Founder and CEO, and Alfie’s mum, Allison proudly welcomed guests on the night and shares her gratitude,

“I was completely blown away by the support at our launch. To see so many people not just turn up, but truly show up for families bereaved by suicide, was something I’ll never forget. Alfie’s Squad is committed to expanding its support and reach even more families. With the incredible support being shown, our goals feel more achievable than ever. Proof that there’s a real drive to make sure no child has to face this journey alone.”

Professor Pooja Saini, was able to share some of her highlights of working alongside the group and explains,

“As a researcher in suicide prevention for over 20 years, I have seen the devastating impact that suicide bereavement has on families. Alfie’s Squad is not only offering a place for these children to find connection and support, but it’s also having a lasting impact on reducing stigma about suicide bereavement, reducing isolation, strengthening families, and, most importantly, helping to prevent future tragedies. The preliminary research shows that this service is making a real difference, and I am proud to support it.”

A huge thanks goes to 92 Degrees Coffee, who not only provided the event space for free, but also treated guests to delicious donuts. Special thanks also to Michelle O’Dwyer from Bay Tree Catering for her incredible cakes!

There has been a great response even since the event, with many attendees eager to get involved in the work being delivered. Whether that’s through engaging with the service to raise awareness, donating towards future activities or supporting Alfie’s Squad upcoming Fundraising Dinner in May.

For those who couldn’t attend but would like to show support and get involved, visit the rest of the website and get in touch via info@alfiessquad.org to learn more about how you can make a difference.

Also, since last week’s launch event, the team at Alfie’s Squad is proud to share that it has had the greenlight to become a registered charity! More information on this coming soon!

Special thanks to photographer and videographer Atanas Paskalev for capturing some special moments from our launch event.