Running for a Cause: Highlighting the Need for a Hillsborough Law
Liverpool fan Michael Parkin is embarking on an incredible journey, running 227 miles from Anfield to Grenfell Tower. His aim is twofold: to raise money for charity and to shed light on the urgent need for a Hillsborough Law. Supported by Hillsborough families, as well as Metro Mayors Steve Rotheram and Andy Burnham, Parkin began his run on April 13.
On April 15, the 35th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster that claimed the lives of 97 supporters, Parkin passed Hillsborough during his trek. At the time of writing, he has already raised over £3,000 for charities like Mind and The Grenfell Foundation. However, his primary focus is to bring attention to the necessity of a Hillsborough Law.
The Hillsborough Law Now campaign seeks to introduce a bill that would establish a legal duty of candour on public authorities and officials. This would put an end to the all-too-familiar pattern of cover-ups and concealing the truth. Additionally, the proposed law would ensure that victims of disasters or state-related deaths have equal legal representation during inquests and inquiries, providing bereaved families with public funding.
Contrary to popular belief, the Hillsborough Law is not solely about football and Liverpool. It has the potential to benefit numerous victims and families affected by high-profile incidents, such as the Post Office Horizon scandal and the Grenfell Tower fire. These families often find themselves thrust into unexpected legal battles that can span decades, prolonging their trauma and grief.
The introduction of the Hillsborough Law would bring about a duty of candour, ensuring that facts surrounding major incidents are released promptly. This would expedite the process of uncovering the truth, leading to greater accountability and the potential for meaningful change. Parkin emphasizes that tragedies are an unfortunate reality in life, and the Hillsborough Law has the power to make the country better equipped to handle them.
After eight days of relentless running, Parkin is scheduled to complete his challenge on April 20. Runners are invited to join him for the last two-and-a-half miles to Grenfell Tower, where 72 lives were lost in a tragic and avoidable fire in 2017.
This remarkable endeavor by Michael Parkin not only raises awareness for the need for a Hillsborough Law but also demonstrates the power that individuals have to instigate change. By running miles upon miles and garnering support, Parkin reminds us that we all have a role to play in advocating for justice and accountability. Donating to his run and learning more about the Hillsborough Law Now campaign are just two ways in which we can contribute to a cause that seeks to create a fairer and more transparent society.