This is a type of solidarity appeal we wish we never have to do. 

Maggy Moyo, our Community Organiser at Right to Remain, is also leading work through Unified Resilience,a Manchester-based healing space for migrant communities and allies that brings people together through love, support, and collective strength.

Maggy is currently organising support for one of our community members in Manchester: Marcia, a young asylum-seeking mother who has tragically lost her 19-year-old son, Theo (Vucky) Nthobatsang.

Theo died under devastating circumstances after falling from a balcony during contact with the police. Since the incident, Marcia has received no official explanation or in-person communication from the authorities. She first learned of her son’s fall, and saw the video, on social media. No mother should have to find out her child’s passing this way.

While dealing with unimaginable grief, Marcia remains in the asylum system, living under the constant fear of detention or deportation. She is without recourse to public funds, and yet, is expected to survive this storm alone.

With the incredible generosity of the Manchester community and contributions through a GoFundMe, we have raised the essential funds needed to give Theo a dignified burial. But more support is urgently needed.

We would like to deeply thank a local Manchester church that has been offering pastoral support from the very beginning. They have kindly opened their doors for the memorial service, and have offered their venue for refreshments following the burial. Sadly, due to the limitations of the church building’s structure, they are unable to host the funeral service itself. We remain grateful for their continued care and generosity.

Though Marcia has the right to work, the emotional toll, loss of childcare, and trauma have made a return to work extremely difficult at this time. She now must rebuild, not only for herself but for her 4-year-old daughter left behind.

We are proud of the way Manchester has come together in compassion, but we continue to ask for your help. Let no one grieve alone.

Together, we hold Marcia through this grief, and we honour Theo’s life with dignity, truth, and love.