Alfie’s Squad recently invited key partners, supporters and families, to a special Impact Night, a chance to celebrate the milestone of its first year as an officially registered charity.

While Alfie’s Squad has been supporting children, young people and their families bereaved by suicide since 2023, the evening was an opportunity to reflect on the first year as a charity, share the difference being made, and to promote some of the ambitious plans for the future.

The event brought together funders, community partners, businesses and families supported by Alfie’s Squad to hear first-hand about the growing impact. Guests also included the High Sheriff of Merseyside, Billy Hui BEM DL and Deputy Lieutenant of Merseyside, Angela Samata BEM DL recognising the importance of the work being delivered across the region.

During the evening, CEO Allison Furlong and Head Trustee Hilda Yarker welcomed guests and shared highlights, including the growing community being built for families affected by suicide and the social value being created through support programmes, events and partnerships.

Updates were also heard from key partners who are helping shape the charity’s work, including Professor Pooja Saini from Liverpool John Moores University, who shared insights from her research with Alfie’s Squad, and Matt Parish from the LFC Foundation, who spoke about their support for the charity and their own social impact work.

Sergeant Delia Roper from Merseyside Police took the time to talk about plans with Alfie’s Squad to ensure families affected by suicide are able to access the support they need, while Patron and ex goalkeeper, Chris Kirkland and Alfie, shared stories from the charity’s Race for a Reason challenge, and their ongoing debate that cheating took place!

One of the most moving moments of the evening came from one of the parents who kindly shared how attending Alfie’s Squad sessions has helped her and her son find a safe space to feel supported and build friendships with others who understand their experiences.

Reflecting on the evening, CEO Allison Furlong said:

“When we started Alfie’s Squad, it came from a place of wanting families affected by suicide to know they are not alone. Seeing so many people in one room, families, partners, businesses and supporters, reminded us just how powerful community can be.

Thanks to everyone’s ongoing support, we have been able to build something really special, and this is only the beginning. We’re excited about the projects ahead and continuing to grow the support available for families who need it.”

It was also a chance to promote the gameshow-themed Fundraising Gala on 21st March, with several businesses already signing up to sponsor tables and support the event.

Anyone interested in attending or becoming one of the gala sponsors for £1000, please email info@alfiessquad.org for more information.

You can also use the above email if you would like to speak to the team about future partnership working, community fundraising for Alfie’s Squad, corporate sponsorships or support for families who have lost a loved one to suicide.