Today marks the ninth anniversary of the Manchester Arena bombing, the devastating terrorist attack that led to the campaign for Martyn’s Law.
Loved-ones of victims are gathering to remember in Manchester, the city shocked by the 2017 attack that claimed 22 lives.
Dignitaries and people across the city are observing periods of silence, offering prayers and thoughts and quietly remembering the dead and sending support to the 1,000 people who suffered physical and psychological wounds in the bombing and in the years that followed.
The focal point for remembrance and reflection throughout the day is the Glade of Light Memorial, near Manchester Cathedral.
The new Lord Mayor of Manchester, councillor Shaukat Ali, council leader, Bev Craig and the council’s chief executive, Tom Stannard, are laying flowers at the memorial site on behalf of the city.
The names of the 22 are also being read aloud during services at Manchester Cathedral, including that of Martyn Hett whose mother Figen Murray successfully campaigned to change the law to help protect the public at venues including arenas and sporting stadia.
Read more here: Today, of all days, remember them – Manchester Evening News
The Protect Alliance’s Jodie Read said: “We’re remembering those who lost their lives today and honouring the hard work of Figen Murray, whose Martyn’s Law campaign has led to legislation which will help to make visiting a range of public venues safer.
“Figen is motivated by the desire for other families to never have to go through what she’s been through, and we’re backing her now as we did before the law gained the Royal Assent. As we go through the new legislation’s implementation period, it’s so important that we keep talking about Martyn’s Law and raise awareness of the important benefits it brings.”
Read the latest government guidance: Government guidance to help businesses prepare for Martyn’s Law
Manchester bomb survivors help teachers of pupils affected by the Southport knife attacks
Some of the young survivors of the attack on an Ariana Grande concert have recently been sharing their experiences to help teachers support pupils traumatised by the Southport knife attacks in 2024.
Dr Cath Hill, who survived the Manchester blast, leads the Bee the Difference project, set up to help future survivors of similar attacks.
She said young people who had survived the Manchester bombing had “made a difference” by sharing their stories with teachers of pupils affected by the Southport tragedy.
She said they offered “hope and practical ways teachers could support those children in Southport” such as not having to keep telling new teachers their story, which can be “retraumatising”.
More than 200 young survivors took part in the Bee The Difference research led by Dr Hill, from Lancaster University, with the National Emergencies Trust charity.
Read more: Manchester Arena bomb survivors offer to help Southport teachers – BBC News
- If you need advice on preparing for the implementation of Martyn’s Law, call us at The Protect Alliance on 02920 695994 or email info@theprotectalliance.uk