Statement from Anna Fowlie: We need to stand together in solidarity against violence and hate speech

It has been incredibly distressing to see the terrible spectre of Islamophobia and racism rear its head as rioting blights some UK communities. Many of us have been thinking hard about what we can do or say. SCVO’s origin over 80 years ago was as an organisation that fought for fairness, inclusion and social justice. That remains at the heart of what we are today.

Despite rumours last week, there have not been any riots in Scotland, but our communities are shaken and there is real fear of what might be.

We know there are community groups and voluntary organisations directly affected. Staff, volunteers and those using services are fearful for their own safety and that of others. Many of our members and others across the sector campaign against injustice every day. The last week has been a stark reminder of how quickly disinformation and hateful messages can spread, and how much we need to stand together in solidarity against violence and hate speech.

And there are many voluntary organisations who are living examples of the massive contribution people of all cultures, all countries, all religions make to our society.

As well as voicing our unwavering support, we at SCVO want to provide whatever practical support we can.

There are links below to range of information and support. If there are other sources of support and information you think would be helpful for us to share with our networks, please let us know about them.

Please also tell us if there is any other kind of support you feel you need to support your staff, volunteers and communities.

You can contact us via our comms team who will direct your email to the right person to help. Send us an email to commsteam@scvo.scot.

Support

Here are some links to a range of information and support that we hope will be helpful:

Supporting your workforce

• ACOSVO is holding a CEO drop in on Thursday 15 August at 3pm for sector leaders to come together to talk, think and support each other. Leaders do not need to be members of ACOSVO to join.
• CIPD offers guidance on supporting your workforce through a crisis.

Responding to public disorder and hate crime

• The Charity Commission offers guidance on responding to public disorder.
• Victim support Scotland offers support for identifying hate crime and reporting it.

Misinformation

• For help with understanding and tackling misinformation this BBC Bitesize article discusses how false information spreads or you might find the SIFT strategy - also from BBC - helpful.
• NCVO offers further information about tackling misinformation.

Social media

If you are considering your social media platforms and engagement with Big Tech here are some resources that may be useful:

• This blog from Strawberry Social is about things to think about if you leave X (Twitter).
• Learn about People vs Big Tech who believe in the original promise of the internet as a force for good.

Solidarity in action

There are a host of posts across social media platforms, voicing support for those affected by Islamophobia and racism.

• Here is an post by the CEO of an English charity. It includes a useful practical overview of principles from the UK trauma council.
• The charity, HOPE not hate, is asking people to hold onto hope and sign their pledge. Many people taking a small step like this can send a powerful message.