Grieving sister nominated for award after transforming road tragedy into support for victims

Lucy Harrison channelled the pain of losing her brother into vital lifeline for families devastated by road collisions

Birmingham: An inspirational campaigner who turned the devastating loss of her brother into a vital support system for bereaved families has been shortlisted for a prestigious regional honour.

Lucy Harrison, founder of Road To Change CIC, is a finalist for the Outstanding Contribution to Supporting Victims of Crime Award at the West Midlands PCC’s Outstanding Citizens’ Awards 2026.

Lucy, pictured above, has campaigned for and supported the rights and welfare of victims of road traffic collisions for many years following the tragic death of her brother, Peter, who was killed by a speeding hit-and-run driver in 2014.

Refusing to let grief consume her, Lucy channelled her pain into helping other families navigate the trauma of losing loved ones in road traffic collisions. When her previous support role ended, she took immediate action to ensure vulnerable families were not left isolated, launching and establishing the initiative Road To Change CIC as a critical lifeline. The organisation provides:

Compassionate advocacy: Offering direct support and safe spaces for families facing traumatic bereavement.

Community remembrance: Organising memorial events to honour victims.

Safety campaigning: Delivering awareness initiatives to challenge dangerous driving and protect communities.

West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster praised her resilience. He said: “Lucy has transformed unimaginable personal tragedy into a powerful force for change…transforming compassion into action and standing beside people when they are in greatest need and at their most vulnerable.”

Black Country Women’s Aid champion recognised for unwavering dedication

Also named as a finalist for the award is Katie Newell, recognised for her profound impact while working with Black Country Women’s Aid. A passionate advocate for vulnerable clients, Katie consistently went above and beyond to support victims.

Despite leaving her official role in March 2026 to focus on her family, her commitment has never wavered; she continues to independently source and deliver food and essential parcels to clients facing severe financial hardship.

The final winner will be announced at the Outstanding Citizens’ Awards on Monday, September 28, 2026, at the Coventry Boys & Girls Club.

Road to Change CIC members pictured at their memorial garden at Pype Hayes Park in Birmingham