New trust launched in memory of Olly Stephens

A charitable trust has been launched in honour of a 13-year-old schoolboy who was murdered after a dispute on social media.

Three teenagers were convicted over the death of Olly Stephens in a field in Reading, Berkshire, in January 2021.

His parents, Stuart and Amanda, have launched a trust called Olly's Work aimed at supporting young people and help tackle online bullying.

The Labour MP for Reading Central, Matt Rodda, said: "It was a privilege to attend the launch of the trust" which was on the 19 November."

Mr Rodda explained that the trust was hoping to help raise awareness of the dangers of knife crime and bullying on social media.

He said: "It is impossible to imagine what Amanda and Stuart and Olly's family and friends have been through, and I want to pay tribute to them."

Olly's Work has already worked with Reading-based charity Starting Point, a mentoring and support organisation for young people.

Mrs Stephens said: "Their creativity and design have allowed us a very personalised brand design and marketing for our work in the future.

"Having this help has given us the confidence to present in Reading secondary schools."

A Santa's grotto in Armour Hill, Tilehurst, will be raising funds for Olly's Work on 20 December.

There is also the Armoured Heart sculpture that was installed at The Oracle Riverside in May 2023.

Mr and Mrs Stephens were involved in the project, which was led by Reading's Community Safety Partnership hosted by Reading Borough Council.

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