Established in 2013, the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust is a volunteer-led, donation-funded charity that alleviates the financial hardship of bereaved families repatriating the bodies of loved ones who have died abroad in sudden or tragic circumstances back to Ireland or other home countries.

Since its inception, KBRT has repatriated the bodies of over 2,041 individuals, offering crucial assistance to bereaved families during times of grief. The charity has helped to repatriate people from countries worldwide such as Australia, Argentina, Spain, America, Thailand, Cambodia and India, to name just a few.

Colin Bell, founder and head of the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, said: “We are deeply appreciative of Carson McDowell’s generous support. Donations like these are essential for us to continue providing financial assistance and guidance to families during their most challenging times.

“This contribution will significantly aid our mission to bring loved ones home with dignity and compassion. In doing so we keep the memory of Kevin alive.”

Carson McDowell’s donation was raised through various fundraising initiatives arranged by the firm’s CSR committee, led by partner Catherine Carton.

Ms Carton said: “Working with the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust in 2024 has been an inspiring experience. This charity’s dedication to supporting bereaved families during the most painful of times is exemplary.

“We are proud to have partnered with a charity that provides such compassionate and vital assistance to families around the world who need help to bring home a loved one who has died abroad.

“We hope that our contribution will assist them in continuing to deliver their invaluable service to those most in need of it.”

She added: “Every year Carson McDowell supports charitable organisations that make a real difference to people’s lives.

“The decision to partner with The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust resulted from the firm’s internal nomination and voting process, an approach adopted annually to ensure the charity partner is the choice of our employees.”

Managing partner Roger McMillan said: “The generosity and enthusiasm of our staff has been incredible. It’s heartening to see such a strong engagement in fundraising efforts for a cause as meaningful as the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust.

“Their contribution reflects the values we hold as a firm and our dedication to making a difference in the community.

“I also wish to extend our thanks on behalf of the entire firm to our clients and contacts who consistently support our fundraising efforts and events and are hugely generous.”