The family of Conor Spraggs, a 23-year-old from Stevenage who tragically died on holiday in 2018, have raised over £19,500 for Victim Support, the country’s leading independent charity for crime victims.
Conor, a furniture fitter, has been described by his mum, Lisa, as a "very well loved [and] popular lad". He died after a fight while on holiday in Ibiza and, last year, a coroner concluded that the cause of Conor's death could not be determined.
Following Conor’s death, his family received both emotional and practical support from the National Homicide Service, delivered by Victim Support.
This has included helping the family to repatriate Conor’s heart, and supporting Lisa while she waits for the case to go to court.
The family are so pleased with the support they have received that they have decided to donate the thousands of pounds raised by the Conor Spraggs Foundation to Victim Support.
Conor's sister, Shannon, initially set up the Conor Spraggs Foundation to raise money to help other families repatriate loved ones who had been killed abroad, and to give something back after all the support they received.
Lots of different events and activities were organised by the family to raise money for the Foundation, including raffles, quiz nights, and Zumba classes. Friends of the family also took on physical challenges, including a marathon and a Highland hike.
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Now, that money will be used by Victim Support to support families bereaved by murder and manslaughter, and eyewitnesses of homicides and major incidents.
They help people navigate the criminal justice system, provide support in accessing financial assistance, and work with trusted partner services including counselling and legal advice.
Lisa Spraggs, Conor’s mum, said: “The support we have received from Victim Support has been amazing. I would be lost without the charity and my wonderful caseworker. We lost Conor over five years ago, but I am still receiving support today.
"The work that they do is really important and we wanted to give something back, to help other people who sadly find themselves in our situation. We are really grateful to everyone who has raised money or donated over the years and this donation is a great way to honour Conor’s memory.”
Ellen Milazzo, head of the National Homicide Service, said: “We would like to say a huge thank you to Conor’s family for all their hard work raising such an incredible amount of money for Victim Support.
"Losing a loved one to murder or manslaughter, especially abroad, is devastating and disorientating. It is essential that the right support is available for those dealing with such traumatic events. Donations such as these help ensure that we are there for people if and when they need us.”
If you’ve been affected by crime, you can call Victim Support’s free 24/7 Supportline on 08 08 16 89 111 or use the free live chat function on their website, www.victimsupport.org.uk
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