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20 December 2022

Dear supporter, 

As we come to the end of 2022, we would like to share some reflections and gratitude.  

This year we have repeatedly been reminded of the urgency and importance of our work, standing alongside bereaved families to challenge state violence, neglect and failing systems of care.  

We give thanks to all those who have supported INQUEST and the families we work with in 2022, including everyone who has donated to our ongoing appeal, our funders, lawyers group members, and all those who have helped to support and share our campaigns and the stories of those we work with. 

As we witness the impact of austerity, and at a time when we are facing funding challenges, we are particularly grateful for this support. 

One family told us, “The unthinkable happened and INQUEST were here to listen and support. I do not know how I would have got through the last 20 months without them. I can’t thank INQUEST enough." 
  
I would also like to thank all the staff and volunteers at INQUEST for their dedication, passion and commitment. And I thank our Board of Trustees for their insights and ongoing support. 
  
We know the festive period can be a particularly difficult time for many, particularly those who are missing loved ones. More so when facing continued injustice, and a long wait for the truth.  

We send a message of solidarity to families affected and repeat our commitment to stand alongside them for as long as we are needed. See links to online resources, as well as the sign up link to the upcoming family newsletter below. 

Next year we will continue to commemorate the past 40 years of INQUEST, with many exciting events and projects planned which we look forward to sharing with you. Please consider filling out this survey on the impact of INQUEST’s work, if you have worked with us in the past or present.  

At times it feels like the work we do is endless, not least when there is increasing inequality, and at a time the state is focused on rolling back human rights.   

Already the 40th anniversary project has served as a reminder of the very real impact INQUEST has had, alongside the powerful voices of bereaved people, over the past four decades. 

Our policy and campaign work for systemic change and for social and racial justice will be at the centre of INQUEST’s work next year. We know we must continue to fight hard for this change, and we know from our history that change is possible. 

Wishing you all a restful festive period and a healthy and peaceful new year. 

With thanks and best wishes,  
Deborah Coles, Director of INQUEST 

 

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Please note:  

Our casework advice service is closed from 3pm on Thursday 22 December and reopens on Thursday 5th January 2023. 
  
Over the break, families we work with can continue to connect with with people in similar situations on the Families @ INQUEST Facebook Group, an online space for reflection and peer support.  

There are also online resources in our Factsheets and Handbook. 

Family Newsletter  

To help us keep in better communication with the families we work with about opportunities and events, and what other families are doing around advocating for change, we are starting a monthly family newsletter from January 2023.   

This is a response to suggestions from those involved, and we hope this will also be an opportunity to share reflections and experiences with each other and build a sense of wider community connection, knowledge and resources. You can subscribe to the Family Newsletter by updating your contact preferences here. 

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