Ishmael Beckford the chair of the CSP Council has condemned recent violence in several parts of the country.
![Council member Ishmael Beckford](/sites/default/files/styles/unstyled_max_width_1200px/public/media-image/2023-01/ishmael_beckford_284_x_338.jpg?itok=YV2wEwJn)
Organised racists have targeted Muslim, Black and migrant communities and also attacked the police and local public services.
He said: 'CSP members live and work in many of the communities which have seen organised racist violence over recent days.
'We stand with these communities and with our members in the face of threats and attacks. We welcome the commitments made by the government and police to tackle those organising this criminality.
Those behind these attacks on local communities are seeking to exploit and misattribute grievances around the decline of services such as the NHS, low pay and other genuine problems our society faces.
'Terrorising local communities does nothing to address these issues.
'Only by working together can we build a better future for all.'
The CSP is committed to opposing racism, Islamophobia, Antisemitism and all other forms of discrimination.
Further information and support
CSP members are supported with legal services by Thompsons Solicitors. When attending any counter-demonstration, keep this card on you - it contains useful information should you be arrested or witness an incident.
Members that witness or are subject to any form of abuse to or from work, or at work, should seek advice and support from your local CSP steward, equality rep or health and safety rep. Find your local rep and how to contact them.
The CSP is affiliated to Hope not Hate who are an advocacy group based in the UK which campaigns against racism and fascism.
The CSP Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) network offers peer support. Read the statement the network has published following anti-racist protests.
The mental health charity Mind provide support if racism is affecting your mental health.
Actions you can take
Race Equality Matters have shared some ways in which you can ensure safety and support for ethnically diverse colleagues:
- Offer Flexible Work Arrangements: Provide the option for colleagues to work from home if they feel safer doing so. Allowing flexible working hours will also allow individuals to accommodate their personal needs and safety.
- Create Safe Spaces: Offer a safe space for colleagues to express their feelings and concerns and accommodate any requests for flexibility to help ensure their safety and well-being.
- Signpost Mental Health Support: Draw attention to mental health services and provisions in your workplace as well as external services so people are aware of ways they can get help.
- Report Incidents: Take a tough stance against any racial hatred experienced inside the workplace or outside. The Islamophobia Response Unit and Tell Mama are platforms to report Islamophobia. To report Antisemitism, you can contact the Community Security Trust.
- Check-In Regularly: Show your compassion and check in with your colleagues. Let them know you are there to support them even if they don’t feel ready to talk. Sometimes, just knowing someone cares can make a significant difference.
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