by Rob Parkinson
We’ve all watched the civil unrest across the UK over the past week with growing concern. Scenes of rioting, targeting some of the most vulnerable people in our communities, is alarming to everyone and upsetting for many. For an organisation like LOROS which is at the heart of its community, we absolutely condemn these attempts to divide people and incite violence. Thankfully there has been little disorder in Leicester, although events in neighbouring Midland cities will have created fear and anxiety everywhere.
With last night’s widespread antiracism protests we all hope the riots have passed, but for many it remains an uncertain time so I’d like to ask teams to check in on one another regularly and for managers to encourage staff to reach out with their concerns. I want you all to know that I, my SLT colleagues and the entire organisation are here for anyone affected, whether personally or emotionally. Supporting one another is a way we can all show our rejection of the violence and hate we’ve recently seen.
Mental health support
Victim Support have responded to the violence and racist attacks by offering services to those impacted. Get support through their free Supportline on 08 08 16 89 111, start a live chat, or access My Support Space—a free, online resource to help you cope following crime.
Explore Healing Justice London’s Aftercare Menu to practice coping skills following a trauma or major event or watch their Anchoring Resilience workshop video
Tell MAMA’s anti-Muslim hate support service provides independent, confidential advice to individuals across the UK. Reach them via phone (0800 456 1226), SMS text (0115 707 00 07), WhatsApp (0734 184 6086), or e-mail (info@tellmamauk.org) to learn more.
The British Islamic Medical Association runs a Support Service open to BIMA members and allies, including non-clinicians in the health system. It provides legal and pastoral help to those facing threats at work relating to their Muslim identity or supporting causes such as Palestine and standing up against Islamophobia. You can email the service in confidence at support@britishima.org or call 0203 551 2497
Property safety & crime prevention
Explore Muslim Council of Britain’s mosque security resources
Learn more about risk management through ProtectUK’s full guide to risk management
Read HOPE Not Hate’s guide, Staying Safe Amidst Far-Right Violence
Read Refugee Action’s briefing for people seeking asylum in hotels.
Reporting acts of violence & hate crime
In an emergency situation—where you feel like things could get heated or violent very soon or where someone is in immediate danger—always call 999. For individuals with a hearing or speech impairment, use the textphone service 1800 or text the Met on 999 if you’ve pre-registered with the emergencySMS service.
Read the comprehensive guide to identifying and reporting hate crime published by Muslim Council of Britain
You can also contact the CATCH (Communities Against Hate) Partnership for specialist advice and support.
Get funding to enhance security at your place of worship via the Home Office's Protective Security Schemes. Thinking about applying for your Mosque, but unsure if you’d qualify? Visit Muslim Council of Britain’s comprehensive FAQ page on the scheme
The Met’s support for victims and witnesses of a crime page can guide you through what happens if you experience or witness crime
Inclusion London have a dedicated resource page on hate crime, with particular attention to support for deaf and disabled people’s organisations
