As the local support body for the voluntary and community sector (VCS) ‘front line’ organisations in Rotherham, we at Voluntary Action Rotherham (VAR) utterly condemn the violent disorder perpetrated over the last week. This is not representative of our VCS members and nor the  communities they work with. The VCS in Rotherham work hard to unite communities, tackle racism and build positive futures.

We recognise that the violence we have seen is rooted in racism and xenophobia, and we condemn the rhetoric that has manifested in the appalling attacks.

‍
We stand in solidarity with the communities affected, particularly refugees, immigrants and people of colour. We stand to support those individuals and families who are the victims of hate. We offer our support to the local community groups and charities who will continue their work and will be part of the necessary work of rebuilding lives and communities. We know that in Rotherham, and indeed across the country, voluntary and community groups are about support, practical help, connectivity, life lines, compassion and much, much more to people, regardless of creed, ethnicity, religion or other characteristics.

We have seen the silent majority of people and communities coming together, united in their condemnation of the hatred and criminality. We have seen many, many acts of kindness and offers of support.

Going forward there are many reasons for hope; as history has shown us that although we cannot ignore hatred and those that seek to destroy; we should focus on channelling our energies into positive actions.

We will continue to actively work with the VCS, statutory partners, businesses and all stakeholders to support the communities affected today and long into the future as vital community rebuilding takes place.

We are here to help you and your communities. Please do continue to check in with your service users, volunteers and staff to hear how they are, reassure them and ask them what they need.

I know we are having lots of individual and partnership conversations with many of you; so please do reach out if you need to talk to us. If you want to email us, about anything, please contact

David Plumtree    david.plumtree@varotherham.org.uk

Best wishes

Shafiq Hussain

Chief Executive, Voluntary Action Rotherham