Update on recent demonstrations in Bristol, what we're doing to ensure everyone is informed and when the next planned demonstrations in Bristol are.
The violent scenes witnessed over the weekend do not reflect our values as a city.
Violence and harassment have no place in our democracy and we stand against all forms of hate against any community.
The violent scenes witnessed over the weekend were carried out by a small group of individuals who chose to express their views through fear and intimidation.
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 (Wednesday 7 August).
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.
If you're worried and want the latest information and advice, including details on potential demonstrations, visit:
- 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're very aware that many people remain concerned about the potential for disorder this evening (Wednesday 7 August) 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.
DCC Jon Reilly from Avon and Somerset Police issued a statement on Tuesday 6 August.
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.
Local council statements
- Bristol City Council joint statement on violence in Bristol from the city’s political party group leaders.
- Joint statement from group leaders at South Gloucestershire Council following recent disorder.
- North Somerset council's leaders call for an end to racism and division.
Police resource
Avon and Somerset Police have put significant resource into preventing disorder and making sure our communities were safe and felt safe.
To date, three men have been charged and 17 people arrested for a range of offences in connection with the violent disorder in Bristol city centre on Saturday night. The latest information from Avon and Somerset Police can be found on their website or on their Facebook page.
Neighbourhood officers are carrying out high-visibility reassurance patrols and these will continue over the coming weeks.
The police continue to monitor the situation and are planning a proportionate operational response to any future activity.
Next planned demonstrations
Further demonstrations are planned in the city on Wednesday 7 August:
- 7pm: a counter demonstration Stand up to Racism / Bristol Against Hate
- 8pm: Enough is Enough planned flash demonstration
We continue to work closely alongside Avon and Somerset Police with our communities and faith groups to ensure that everyone is kept informed with accurate and up to date information.
Peaceful demonstration is a cornerstone of our democracy. We support the peaceful sharing of views within the law and the right to demonstrate opinions in a way that respects public safety.
Our city is a place to discuss and debate views constructively, inclusively and respectfully, and where diversity is valued.
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 (PDF).
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
Advice and support for businesses
Remember to always prioritise the safety of your employees.
National Business Crime Centre
The National Business Crime Centre have produced a top tip guide to help safeguard your business during public events (PDF).
UK Hospitality Support Hub
UK Hospitality have collated resources for hospitality businesses impacted by current incidents.
Protect UK
ProtectUK provides business and the public with counter terrorism support and guidance to effectively protect and prepare.
Crisis management
Guidance is available through the Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI) to help organisations prepare for crises arising from factors outside their control (PDF).
Night time safety
Bristol Nights
Under the council's Bristol Nights partnership, we support the night time economy through shared values of creating safe spaces, where all communities are welcome without fear of being harassed or discriminated against because of their biological sex, race or ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, cultural background, religious affiliation, age or physical or mental ability.
Bristol Nights takes a zero tolerance to all forms of harassment, racism, and intimidation.
Women's Safety Charter
The women's safety charter is packed full of advice, tools and techniques which apply to all forms of harassment and discrimination.
Thrive at Night
Thrive at Night supports the mental health and wellbeing of the night time economy workforce.
A wide range of resources and advice are available, including the team member workbook with tools to help manage anxiety and stress in the workplace, and the managers handbook for tips on how to support your team.
The Burnt Chef Project
The Burnt Chef Project are global leaders in mental health and wellbeing support for hospitality.
If you are a hospitality or nightlife worker and your workplace does not have an employee assistance program, The Burnt Chef Project can offer you support and someone to speak to.