New Cross Fire Foundation
Promoting Legacy and working towards building resilient Communities
Who We Are
We are a Community Interest Company in New Cross which is based in the London Borough of Lewisham.
We are made up of a group of individuals who were directly or indirectly impacted by the New Cross Fire of 1981.
Our Directors
Gary Collins (Chair)
Director of Operations
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Wayne Haynes
Director of Public Relations
Pat Warmington
Director of Education
Richard Simpson
Director of Community Engagement
John Price
Director of History and Heritage
The New Cross Fire Foundation (NCFF) is a charitable organization founded by Family Members of those who tragically lost their lives and Survivors of the devastating New Cross Fire incident in 1981. This event had a profound impact on the Black Caribbean communities in London, causing immense grief and trauma. Unfortunately, during that time, there was a lack of support to help individuals overcome these challenges.
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The survivors of the fire were young, with an average age of 15, and were just embarking on their exams. As a result, they faced negative socio-economic outcomes in areas such as Employment, Finance, Physical Health, and Mental Health. It has been 41 years since the New Cross Fire occurred, yet its detrimental effects are still felt by communities, spanning five generations.
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NCFF is dedicated to ensuring that the Black Caribbean Community receives the support it deserves, provided by individuals who can directly relate to their experiences. Our aim is to tailor our assistance to their specific needs, helping them overcome the barriers they face and fostering positive change.
The directors of NCFF have overcome their own personal traumas and have acquired the qualifications and skills necessary to facilitate the following initiatives:
What We Do
NCFF offers educational support, advocacy, and guidance.
We support those people from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities.​
We work with anyone who may be affected by national or social inequalities and who is suffering disadvantages and/or mental health issues as a result.
TRAINING
ACTIVITIES
We run a range of activities that can help enable you to make positives changes for life.
COUNSELLING SERVICES
We facilitate one-to-one or group support sessions to help you get through mental health or trauma.
AID & SUPPORT
We offer essential assistance and guidance for when you are feeling most vulnerable.
NCFF INITIATIVES
Training Workshops and Activities
We offer a variety of accredited courses and training workshops designed to empower individuals and communities within the Black Caribbean Community. Our courses provide valuable skills and knowledge for personal and professional development.
Accredited Courses
Our accredited courses are tailored to the specific needs of the Black Caribbean Community. These courses equip participants with essential skills and qualifications, enhancing their career prospects and overall personal growth.
Counselling Services
Our confidential counselling services provide support for trauma, grief, and emotional well-being. Our qualified professionals assist individuals in navigating their healing process and finding emotional resilience.
Research and Representation
We conduct research to understand the long-term impact of the New Cross Fire incident on the Black Caribbean communities. By amplifying their voices and experiences, we advocate for necessary reforms and policies.
Crisis Support for the Most Vulnerable
We prioritize providing critical crisis support to the most vulnerable members of our community. Our dedicated team offers immediate assistance and connects individuals to essential resources during challenging times.
​Advice, Guidance, and Support
Our comprehensive advice, guidance, and support services help individuals overcome obstacles and foster personal growth. We assist with educational opportunities, career paths, and other issues hindering progress.
Community Fundraising Events
We organize community fundraising events to sustain our initiatives and expand our impact. These events raise funds while promoting unity and active participation within the community.
Bursaries
Our bursary programs support educational opportunities within the Black Caribbean Community. We provide financial assistance to deserving individuals, enabling them to pursue their educational aspirations.
Community Engagement Activities
We actively engage the community through workshops, seminars, and cultural events. These activities strengthen community bonds, promote dialogue, and foster a sense of belonging.
Advocacy
We advocate for the rights and well-being of the Black Caribbean Community. Through our advocacy efforts, we raise awareness, challenge inequalities, and drive systemic change for an inclusive and equitable society.