Responding to the ongoing riots around the UK

Over the past week, communities around the UK have experienced heart-breaking scenes of violence and hatred on their streets as anti-immigrant riots have spread from Southport to Hull, Belfast, Manchester, Bristol, Plymouth, Middlesbrough and other areas of the UK.  

We at UK Community Foundations (UKCF) are deeply saddened by the violence and vitriol that has sought to divide our communities and create a climate of fear.   These actions will cause long-term damage, financially and emotionally, and we condemn the racism and Islamophobia of those who seek to terrorise local neighbourhoods.  They do not represent the diverse and forward-thinking culture we want to collectively build in the UK, and we stand by those affected.  

This is a time to stand together.

Charities and local groups are doing everything they can to support those affected, helping to repair damage as well as supporting local communities to feel connected and safe. 

Already, volunteers are cleaning streets, repairing buildings and finding ways to help people who have lost livelihoods. 

Community foundations support small voluntary and community groups, charities and other types of not-for-profit organisations around the UK with funds and resources to bring communities together.  The community foundations in the affected regions are working with local networks to understand and support immediate needs, as well as starting the longer-term work to heal fractured communities.

Please visit our map to find your nearest community foundation if you would like to provide local support.

We must respond in solidarity and compassion. 

UKCF will be connecting with networks around the nation to continue building our communities as welcome, thriving places where cultures and identities feel safe and celebrated. 

This work will require a long-term approach to address the systemic root causes of racist behaviour, collaborating with – and being led by – local communities.