Kenyan Care Worker Irene Mbugua to Be Laid to Rest in Nottingham on 5 September

Irene Mbugua, a 46-year-old Kenyan mental health carer, will be laid to rest on Friday, 5 September 2025, following her death while working at a client’s home in Birmingham on 22 June.

Originally from Kenya, Ms Mbugua had moved to the United Kingdom in search of economic stability and to support her family. She worked in the mental health care sector, a field known for demanding hours, emotional intensity, and often limited oversight, particularly for those employed in private residences or through agency arrangements.

West Midlands Police have confirmed that investigations into the circumstances surrounding her death are ongoing. In the weeks following her passing, the Kenyan diaspora in the UK organised several events to honour her life. A candlelight vigil will take place on Thursday, 4 September at 8:00 p.m. outside The Clock on Craven Road in Nottingham.

Attendees are encouraged to wear white, and candles will be available for purchase, with proceeds contributing to funeral costs. The funeral service will be held at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Hucknall, Nottingham, beginning at 11:00 a.m. on Friday.

Burial will follow at Highwood Cemetery in Bulwell. Community leaders have invited members of the public to attend, describing the farewell as both a moment of remembrance and communal support.