Community cohesion: rising tensions

• Keep an eye on local events and online forums for any planned demonstrations, inflammatory leaflets, or rumours that target immigrants or minority groups.
• Connect with trusted local sources – community leaders, faith groups, and local councillors – to share updates and counter misinformation.

• Regularly chat with your neighbours and community groups to build trust before tensions rise.
• Support events that promote unity and shared values.
• Work with local schools, sports clubs, and youth groups to foster understanding and resilience against divisive narratives.

• Address misinformation early with clear, fact-based communication through social media, community meetings, and, if needed, leaflets.
• Avoid spreading harmful messages – instead, share positive examples of cooperation and solidarity.
• Highlight the real contributions immigrants, refugees, and others make to the community.

• Pay attention to rising tensions, such as graffiti, hostile leaflets, or increased aggressive rhetoric in community spaces or online.
• Note the increased presence of extremist groups distributing material or trying to recruit locally.
• Track coordinated protests targeting asylum seeker accommodation or community centres.

• Create a community safety plan, including how to respond if protests take place near vulnerable sites (e.g., hotels housing asylum seekers).
• Stay in touch with local police and councils, make sure they understand your concerns about safety and potential disorder.
• Encourage reporting of hate incidents via official channels and share support resources for those affected.

If your community is experiencing rising hostility or planned disruptive events stay connected and support each other during this time:

• • Stay in touch: Set up a quick way to share important updates with community groups, like a WhatsApp group or an email list.
  • Reach out for help: If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure of what to do, don’t hesitate to reach out to FURD, local authorities, or other experienced organisations. They can provide guidance and support to help navigate this difficult time.
  • Show unity and support: Come together as a community and show support for diversity. Peaceful gatherings, solidarity messages, and visible support for everyone can help counteract fear and aggression.
  • Make sure vulnerable groups are safe: Check in with asylum seekers, migrants, and anyone who may be feeling vulnerable. Offer them reassurance and practical help whenever you can.
  • Document incidents carefully: If you witness any discriminatory actions or disorder, it’s important to document them carefully. Keep written records and images (when it’s safe to do so) of these incidents. This can be helpful if you decide to report them to the police or take civil action.

Remember, strong communities are built through cooperation, kindness, and mutual support. By staying alert and prepared, we can make sure that attempts to divide us fail and that every person, regardless of their background, feels safe and valued in Britain.