The council is sharing its heartfelt condolences with the families and loved ones of three children who were tragically murdered in Southport last week. Our thoughts and prayers are also with the wider community there. 

We are also sharing deep concern over the violence, public disorder and criminal activity we have seen across the country in the wake of the horrific events in Southport. 

In recent days, we have witnessed incidents across the country where elements of the far right have exploited this moment to target migrant and Muslim communities, attempting to sow division and hatred. This sort of behaviour is completely deplorable.

Our borough’s diverse heritage has always been our strength and as a community we must continue to stand firm against hatred and violence – it has no place in Barking and Dagenham. 

We know people in our community may be feeling upset, worried about themselves and their families, and anxious seeing this unacceptable behaviour. We are working closely with the police and our faith and community partners to make sure people feel safe and secure in our borough. 

The Police are carrying out additional patrols and providing additional support and reassurance visits to the borough’s faith venues and community organisations. They will investigate any incidents and take appropriate action to ensure any acts of hatred do not go unpunished. 

If you have been a victim or a witness of hate crime, please report it here or call the police in an emergency on 999.