About us
A passion for sport, passed on
The What Would Mia Do Trust was set up by Mia's family to honour and extend the legacy of Mia Craen, a passionate sportswoman with a drive to inspire.
Mia's story
On 30 January 2021, we faced an unimaginable loss when Mia, at just 18, was tragically taken from us in a road traffic accident. This changed the lives of those who knew Mia forever.
Mia wasn't just a passionate sportswoman; she was a beacon of encouragement, a fervent team player, and a force of motivation for all who knew her.
Whatever the score or weather, Mia gave her best.
Whether she was guarding the goal for Horsham Hockey Club and Sussex County Hockey or running the tracks for Horsham Triathlon Club, her infectious enthusiasm was always there. Mia was also a proud member of the Atlantis Swimming Club for several years, and had fond memories of Horsham Sparrows Football Club in her younger days.
Yet pursuing these passions often came with financial strain. Equipment was expensive, and although we managed to borrow when buying wasn't an option, we understood the barriers many face. Not every young sportsperson has the means or the support to chase their sporting dreams.
With that realisation, Mia's family founded the What Would Mia Do Trust in her memory.
Our mission
No young person sidelined by cost
We raise funds to provide grants and loans for equipment and participation fees, for children and young people aged 5 to 18.
Confidence
Sport instils confidence and resilience that lasts far beyond the pitch, pool or track.
Belonging
A team offers friendship and a haven in a world where young people can feel isolated and unheard.
A voice
We want the next generation to find their voice, passion and community through sport, just as Mia did.
What we do
Our charitable purpose
The Trust exists to advance amateur sport for young people aged 5 to 18 who live in England or Wales.
We do this by helping less privileged young people take part: those who, without support, could not realistically take part in their chosen sport. Trustees award grants at their discretion towards equipment, membership and subscription fees, entry fees and travel.
Usually the young person spends the grant and owns what they buy. Sometimes, for example when someone is trying a sport for the first time, the Trust buys equipment and lends it. If they carry on, they may keep it; if not, it can be passed on to another young person.
Working together
KidsOut
Together with KidsOut we funded their first sports programme for children living in refuges: football training, rugby club memberships, swimming lessons and kit.
Read about it on the KidsOut websiteMia's clubs
Mia played and trained with Horsham Hockey Club, Sussex County Hockey, Collyer's College, Horsham Triathlon Club, Atlantis Swimming Club and, when she was younger, Horsham Sparrows Football Club. Clubs like these are at the heart of what we do.
The people behind the Trust
Our trustees
Mia's family and friends, all volunteers, who meet to consider every application.
- Stephen HallChair
- Michelle Craen
- Peter Craen
- Finlay Craen
- Steven Maddock
- Anthony McMahon
Accounts and governance
The Trust was set up by a trust deed dated 25 June 2021 and registered with the Charity Commission on 21 March 2022. It is recognised by HMRC for Gift Aid. Our trustees are volunteers.
In the year to 21 March 2026 our income was £9,681 and we spent £4,853. Our annual returns are filed on time, and you can see them on the Charity Commission register.