Like so many within our communities, we are deeply shocked and saddened by the despicable fascist rioting of the past week, and the tragic events in Southport that came before. We stand with all our voluntary sector, transport and government colleagues calling out these riots for what they are: racist, hate-based, violent thuggery, designed to create division and fear.

Within community rail, we work to bring people together, celebrate diversity, empower communities, and bolster local pride. We work with marginalised and vulnerable groups, empowering them to travel and move around confidently, and to contribute their voices, lived experiences, skills and creativity to creating a fairer, better future for all. It’s dismaying that these vital, community-led endeavours, and people’s ability to live their lives well, are being undermined by the spread of fear and violence.

We remain resolute in our commitments to supporting and empowering marginalised people, and building more inclusive transport and communities, and we stand firm alongside the many community members and partners working with us towards these aims.

If any of community rail partnerships and groups are being affected by these events, please feel free to consult with our support & development team or seek help via the channels set out on the NCVO’s briefing.