Show of Unity for South Tyneside Community
Community leaders came together in South Shields this week to show unity and strength in the wake of disorder and protest activity across the region and beyond.
South Tyneside Council Leader, Councillor Tracey Dixon, joined North East Mayor, Kim McGuinness, and Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth, at Ocean Road Community Centre to meet members of the town's diverse community groups.
Together with Superintendent Michelle Caisley of Northumbria Police South Tyneside, they used the event, which was attended by local voluntary groups, businesses and faith leaders, to reassure residents that robust plans are in place to keep people safe, to talk and listen to concerns, strengthen partnerships and reinforce community cohesion.
Partners also moved to reiterate that they are working together to ensure businesses have the confidence that any future protest activity does not affect their trade and that people should go about their daily lives and enjoy all that the Borough has to offer.
Councillor Tracey Dixon, Leader of South Tyneside Council, said: "South Tyneside is a tolerant and united community with a strong sense of belonging and the unacceptable scenes of disorder, hate and violence seen elsewhere are in no way representative of our inclusive and welcoming Borough.
"However, we appreciate that some of our residents, particularly those in our diverse communities, may still feel afraid, anxious and concerned at this time following unsubstantiated reports, rumour and misinformation shared online and aimed at creating harm and division.
"This is not who we are in South Tyneside. We take care of each other. We have excellent relationships with our local communities and have kept in close contact throughout developments.
"We want to reassure everyone that we are here working together to keep people safe, stand up against hatred, maintain peace and calm and remind people that South Tyneside remains open for business."
Residents are reminded not to share misinformation or unfounded rumours online and to follow the information and guidance shared through trusted official channels.
North East Mayor, Kim McGuinness, said: "Racism and violence has no place in South Tyneside and our great North East. I'm heartened by the way our communities stood up for our values and faced down those who seek to spread hate and division.
"As Mayor, I'm determined to bring people together, restore confidence in communities and ensure we remain united against the far-right or anyone who seeks to sow hatred of any kind. That means thinking about the long-term response, as well as ensuring people can go about their daily lives here and now.
"I will listen to the concerns of all faiths and communities to ensure people feel safe right across the region. This community gathering was an important first step to understand how we might achieve the goal we all share - a peaceful, proud and prosperous North East."
A robust policing place is in place and officers remain out and visible in communities offering support across the region. Tough action is also being taken through the courts against the perpetrators of violence and disorder in the region.
Susan Dungworth, Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, said: "The events of the last few weeks have been incredibly difficult for our communities, and those working to keep us safe. My sincere thanks go to all those who have been involved in our response.
"The region's response after being targeted with unwelcome violence and disorder is one that we can all be proud of, and showed the very best of our people."
"Work remains to be done however, and I have met with communities across the region to hear the impact that these recent weeks have had, and the unacceptable harm and division that has been endured by so many.
"I want our communities to know that we are there for them and should anyone feel they need support as a result of recent events, we will be there for you."
The meeting, also attended by the Council's Deputy Leader Councillor, Jane Carter, Lead Member for Voluntary Sector, Partnerships and Equalities Councillor, Paul Dean, and Chief Executive, Jonathan Tew, was held ahead of Sunday's Ocean Road Mela - an annual family-friendly community event celebrating different cultures in South Shields.
Anyone who has concerns about recent events can contact Northumbria Police by direct message on social media or use the live chat function and report forms on the Northumbria Police website. Those who are unable to contact police in this way can call 101.