Demonstration and disruption – Education

7/8/24

I wanted to give you an update on some possible demonstrations and disruption that could affect Bristol tonight.

You will have seen the violent and destructive behaviour in our city over the weekend, and these scenes will have caused many of you to feel worried and unsafe in your city. What we have seen in Bristol is completely unacceptable and doesn’t reflect who we are as a city.

There is a great deal of information and misinformation circulating right now and we are aware of online information calling on people to gather in Bristol tonight. We are working closely with the police who  have reassured us that they have significant resources in place to deal with any disruption and to keep people safe.

Avon and Somerset Police have asked that we let police officers deal with those who want to create unrest and discord in our city. The Police have committed to pursuing all those who perpetrate acts of violence, cause damage to property, or commit offences motivated by hate. They are putting in place hundreds of specialist officers to deal with any demonstrations.

There are rumours circulating online that police have warned about marches planned along Stapleton Road. These are not true – and police have had no confirmed information that any march will actually take place. Please see the video statement from DCC Jon Reilly below.

If you are worried and want information on potential demonstrations this evening, please monitor Avon and Somerset Police’s social media channels and website, and those of Bristol City Council, for the latest information and advice:

• Avon and Somerset Police website
• Avon and Somerset Police Facebook page
• Avon and Somerset Police Twitter page
• Bristol City Council Facebook page
• Bristol City Council Twitter page

We are very aware that many people remain concerned about the potential for disorder this evening and in the days and weeks to come, we will continue to work closely with emergency services, community and faith groups and we will keep you regularly updated.

Watch DCC Jon Reilly from Avon and Somerset Police issued a statement from the 6th Agust 2024 here.

Violence and harassment have no place in our democracy and our city. We stand against all forms of hate against any community and will not tolerate any behaviour which attempts to divide our communities.

Disruption and division harms us all.

What these past few days have shown us is that those causing damage, fear, and division in our communities are a minority who do not reflect the values of our diverse city.

By contrast, individuals, community and Faith groups, colleagues across the council, the emergency services, local businesses, civic partners stand together for kindness, compassion and peace.

We are Bristol.

The latest information is available on the council’s website: https://www.bristol.gov.uk/residents/crime-and-emergencies/demonstration-disruption

If you’re confronted with a hate crime

To report hate crime:

• Call 101 (or 999 in an emergency)
• report it online to Avon and Somerset Police
• speak to a police officer or PCSO in person

If you’re in danger or if you have information to share call 999. If you’re concerned or in doubt, call 101 for non-emergencies.

Sari Charity

In light of the recent racist and Islamophobic incidents across the UK, it is crucial to respond to hate crimes swiftly and firmly. Taking immediate action can help prevent further incidents and ensure the safety of our communities.

Sari Charity have made a guide providing information on what you can do if you encounter or witness a hate crime.

You can also find information on supporting employees during times of racial unrest.

Mental health and wellbeing support

We appreciate the events of the weekend and reports of future ones will be causing a level of stress and anxiety. There many organisations across the city that can offer advice and support:

• Samaritans offer support 24 hours a day, seven days a week
• AWP (Avon and Wiltshire mental health partnership) can offer support, advice and guidance
• Shout 85258 offers confidential text support 24 hours a day, seven days a week
• Nilaari Agency provide mental health assistance, particularly to adults from Black, Asian, and Minoritized Communities
• Somali Resource Centre provides free and impartial information, advice and guidance

If you need any further advice, please contact Dawn Butler or Kate Irvine.

Dawn.butler@bristol.gov.uk  working hours 0117 377 2343. Out of hours- 07827 306287 

Kate.irvine@bristol.gov.uk – working and out of hours – 07917 924051

Bristol Early Years