John Pierce’s Memorial Fund

On Thursday 10th June 2021, John died of Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome.

The loss of John was unexpected and has caused enormous sorrow for his family, friends and local community.

Those who knew and loved John know he devoted his professional and personal life to helping others. He inspired people to be more compassionate, more positive, to campaign for social justice – and he did this everyday by bringing people together at local and national levels.

John was dedicated to the community of Tower Hamlets where he lived for many years. After being elected as a local councillor in 2012, he was committed to serving the residents of Bethnal Green’s Weavers Ward where he touched many lives, using his knowledge and experience to effect change. His dedicated local advocacy saved vital local services, secured brand new homes, led to safer and cleaner streets, and helped thousands of residents have their concerns heard and their problems fixed.

John also became an Assistant Beaver Leader in the local neighbourhood and was instrumental in supporting the group in their future successes. He loved his work with children and young people, and his death is all the more heart-breaking as he had recently fulfilled his dream of adopting a son.

Alongside John’s achievements as a Labour Councillor, John was a valued and much-loved colleague at the National Housing Federation for 16 years. As Campaigns Manager, he inspired people to make their voices heard on a range of housing-related issues. Amongst many other accomplishments, John successfully campaigned for the removal of premiums on prepayment energy tariffs, and against proposals to cut funding for vital supported housing services. John’s work at the NHF had a direct and lasting impact on countless people’s lives.

Following John’s death, many people have asked if they can make donations to honour John’s memory. With his family, we have agreed to set up a Memorial Fund rather than raise funds for one charity, given John championed so many causes. To keep donations in one place and continue to build on John’s positive legacy, we’ve created this Fundraising Page. John’s family and close friends have identified the following main charities we wish to donate to in his honour:

We know that so many of you will want to contribute in your own way and over time. John himself ran 10ks and half-marathons, completed Tough Mudder and supported local events for charities, so with this in mind, we'll leave this space and decision up to you.

You can do anything from donating directly, to hosting a coffee morning or running a marathon and we invite all that have messaged about donations, to use this Fundraiser page and run your own special events.

We are looking to hold a much larger event with which we'll encourage anyone who wants to get involved. Further details and timings on the standout event will follow.

Thank you for taking the time to read this page and thank you for all of your ongoing support in helping us keep John's passions and legacy alive.