Family of murdered teenager Owen Dunn to hold fundraising events

The Owen's World Foundation was established in memory of 18-year-old Owen Dunn following his murder in December 2022 in Mazurek Way.

A charity football match will take place on Saturday July 6 at the Moredon Sports Hub, from 12pm to 5pm, and the money raised will be used to install more purge kits in Swindon and run training events to show people how to use them in case of emergency.

The charity has previously supported the introduction of 13 phlebotomy kits, but these have faced some opposition within the community.

Zoe Mitchell, Owen's mother, said: “We are trying to get as much coverage as possible and we are trying to roll out the kits in West Swindon but we are hitting brick walls.

“One pub told us it 'doesn't give off the right image' and it's not what people want to see, so it seems some people are struggling to accept the need for it.

“People who attend the bleeding kit training events say it is very informative and teaches them how to save a life.

“Someone can bleed out five minutes before an ambulance can arrive, so it’s important people know how to intervene.”

They are also planning adult workshops to help parents “open up the communication” to help them spot the signs of their child's grooming or take action if they discover their child is carrying a knife.

But their “biggest event yet” will be a fun day on August 31 and they would love for food vendors and anyone who can donate a few hours of their time to get involved.

“Day by day, I take things as they come, some days are good and some days are bad.

“It’s difficult to give talks in youth clubs and community centers but it gives me hope and I do something positive with my pain,” explains Zoé.

“I know there will be children who won't listen to me, but a knife doesn't necessarily protect you. Owen thought pulling out a knife would protect him, but don't do it, go talk to someone – someone you trust like a parent or teacher – and tell them if you're scared or thinking about it.