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.
In the face of these violent atrocities, the immense compassion and support offered by neighbours, charities and people far and wide towards communities affected has been heart-warming for our team and our members.
Community foundations are working with local networks to understand and support immediate needs, as well as starting the longer-term work to heal fractured communities.
You can read the full statement from UK Community Foundations (UKCF), our membership body, here.
We fully support and agree with this statement as do all 47 community foundations across the UK. In particular, Community Foundation for Merseyside, who have launched an emergency appeal.
Community Foundation for Merseyside has launched an emergency appeal to support those directly impacted in the Southport knife attack that took place on Monday 29 July.
The Southport Strong Together Appeal, which has already received its first donation of £50,000 from the Liverpool ONE Foundation, will help to meet the immediate and longer-term needs of those affected.
“We cannot change the devastating events that have unfolded in our community, or reverse the grief and pain that so many will be feeling - but we can make a difference to those whose lives have been affected. We are launching the Southport Strong Together Appeal to raise funds for the children and adults directly involved, their loved ones and the wider community.”
To make a donation to the Southport Strong Together Appeal please visit here or text SOUTHPORT followed by your donation amount to 70085 to give that amount*.
At Sussex Community Foundation, we fully support and endorse all the organisations we work with who are helping to create a fairer, more equal Sussex.
Our next Main grant funding deadline is Friday 6 September find out more here.
*Texts will cost the donation amount plus one standard network rate message, and you’ll be opting into hearing more from us. If you’d like to donate but don’t wish to hear more from us, please text SOUTHPORTNOINFO instead.
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