Mother Who Lost Son to Knife Crime Now Supports Victims

Tatiana Qureshi, a mother from Berkshire, described the profound impact of the past year on her life, stating, “I was lost, I couldn’t do anything,” her voice faltering as she spoke. She struggled to control her emotions while discussing the death of her son, Temur. Temur was fatally stabbed in Slough in September 2023 at the age of 19. Ms. Qureshi conveyed that she felt a sense of personal loss following Temur’s death, admitting she still experiences “days when I don’t want to open the curtains.” During an interview with BBC Radio Berkshire, she revealed that she has since discovered vital support within a collective of mothers dedicated to combating knife crime. This group, Mothers Together, was co-founded by Julie Siddiqui, who expressed that encountering Ms. Qureshi has given her “a friend for life and a sister.” Ms. Siddiqui remarked, “In many ways I wish we hadn’t met in this way but I think she has been very brave about wanting to be involved and speaking up.” Ms. Qureshi indicated that her engagement with the group has motivated her to “help kids and parents” who have endured comparable situations. She affirmed, “I know exactly how they feel.” Reflecting on her son’s life trajectory, which she described as moving in an undesirable direction, Ms. Qureshi emphasized the necessity for enhanced, non-judgmental support for young individuals. She stated, “That is the worst part, when you really want to change” and “there is literally no-one to help you.” She further mentioned her perception that she and Temur were unfairly categorized as a “bad mother” and “bad son,” a labeling she hopes to prevent for others. Ms. Qureshi asserted, “We have to stand up and work together as parents, kids, schools and local authority.” Mothers Together is scheduled to organize a Walk Against Knife Crime, commencing at Harvey Park in Slough at noon on Saturday. The march will proceed to Langley Memorial Park for a community action day, featuring addresses from local organizations and informational booths staffed by Thames Valley Police. Anticipating the event, Ms. Siddiqui commented, “You never quite know the impact it has on everyone.” She added, “The point of it is to make the noise and wear the T-shirts and make people aware… I think it will be powerful in its own way.”