RESPONDING to the riots and disorder the Local Government Association (LGA) Chair Cllr Louise Gittins, has said:- "It is with relief that we have not so far seen a repeat of the extremist far-right violence, racism and thuggish behaviour that has brought fear and distress to so many people and blighted communities up and down the country and it is right that the full force of the law is being brought to bear on those who take part in violent and racially motivated disorder. The many instances of Councils and communities coming together to support each other and work together to clean up in the aftermath of the violence have provided hope. Councils' strong local partnerships with community and faith leaders have made a huge difference to promote messages to stop the escalation of violent protests and disorder in their areas, and to support individuals and communities which have been harmed. Efforts to protect communities and businesses have been severely hampered by the sheer scale of disinformation being spread on social media. We urge people to only look to trusted sources for information, such as their local Council or Police. We also know that high levels of anxiety, fear, and anger remain for many communities and the threat of further disorder remains. Councils know their local places best and the Government and other agencies need to ensure they make use of local figures who can help calm community tensions. Local Government representation at COBR is vital in ensuring a quick and effective response on key issues, making the most of Local Government intelligence, experience and expertise. It is also critical that we act on the longer-term issues of rebuilding and community cohesion. Adequate Government funding for cohesion initiatives is essential, particularly in the most disadvantaged areas where historical factors are leading further unrest. Building community cohesion requires a long term strategic approach, and Councils have struggled to fund preventative measures that might make a real difference amid ongoing funding pressures. We also need to see greater investment in young people and funding for diversionary activities for young people who in some incidents appear to be encouraged by older or non local agitators. The LGA continues to support Councils as they look to learn from and build on these horrendous incidents and as they seek to rebuild trust and confidence in communities."
