Demonstrations and Disruption

Visit West exists through its Business Improvement Districts in Bristol and Local Visitor Economy Partnership for the West of England, to support our business communities, local authorities, the people working within those businesses and the communities surrounding this wonderful part of the world.

Our priority has been to work with the police and local authorities, to ensure that consistent and accurate information and feedback has been available, and that support and advice is clearly signposted.

The impact of the recent actions of a small group of racist individuals has impacted people, families, visitors, our communities, our businesses and the local economy.  We pride ourselves on welcoming people from across the world and are working hard both locally and nationally to ensure that local voices are heard.

The example of local communities supporting each other in Bristol, and across the UK last night demonstrated that hate is not welcome here.  We stand against all forms of hate towards any community and stand in solidarity with those who have been affected.

Links to statements and information about the support available below:

Avon & Somerset Police Channels

If you are worried and want information on potential demonstrations this evening, please monitor Avon and Somerset Police’s social media channels and website, and those of your local authority for the latest information and advice:

• Avon and Somerset Police website
• Avon and Somerset Police Facebook page
• Avon and Somerset Police Twitter page

If you are 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 Support

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 have 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.

Mental health and wellbeing support

We appreciate the recent events in Bristol and other cities, and reports of future ones will be causing a level of stress and anxiety. There many organisations 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

Remember to always prioritise the safety of your employees.

Support and advice

• National Business Crime Centre: have produced a top tip guide to help safeguard your business during public events.
• UK Hospitality Support Hub: have collated resources for hospitality businesses impacted by current incidents.
• Protect UK: 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.

Night time economy - health, safety and wellbeing

In Bristol, through the council’s Bristol Nights brand, 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.

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 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.

Further Resources

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.

Local Authority Social Media Accounts

• Bristol City Council Facebook page
• Bristol City Council X page
• Bath and North East Somerset Council X page
• Bath and North East Somerset Council Facebook page
• South Gloucestershire Council Facebook page
• South Gloucestershire Council X page
• North Somerset Council Facebook page
• North Somerset Council X page

Statements from Local Councils

• Bristol City Council joint statement on violence in Bristol from the city's political party group leaders.
• Statement from Bristol City Council Leader, Councillor Tony Dyer
• 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.
• Statement from Bath & North East Somerset Council Leader on recent disorder