You may be aware of social media posts about further potential protest activity across the region in the coming days, including potential activity in Sunderland this evening.
Northumbria Police has stood up a robust policing presence to deal with any potential protest activity in Sunderland, with police already present in the city this morning. Following the disorder we saw in our city last weekend we have seen a number of swift arrests and convictions. These should act as a powerful warning to anyone planning further disorder.
We understand this may provide further cause for concern. We would encourage businesses across the city to continue to take advice from officers on duty to assist in decision making. We are aware some businesses have made the decision to close. Sunderland City Council and Sunderland BID are operating services business as usual today and remain open. We will also be co-located with police to ensure presence in the city centre tonight.
Northumbria Police have advised that the best way to report a crime to them or to share information with them is by sending them a direct message on social media, or use to the live chat function and online report forms on the Force’s website.
Anyone who isn’t able to make contact in this way, can call 101.
In an emergency or where a crime is taking place, the advice is to always dial 999
Following the appalling acts of crime and disorder that were committed on Friday, we want to thank all the businesses and their staff who came together with residents over the weekend to support the clean up effort. This overwhelmingly positive response to gather and repair the damage, and to support each other in difficult times, is the image that we know is representative of Sunderland and its people.
We are working closely with the police to ensure our city is a safe and welcoming place for all. We also continue to work alongside the BID to understand the impact the events of Friday have had on city centre businesses and to offer support.
More broadly, if there is particular support which you need or would find helpful in the days and weeks ahead, as a city centre business and also as an employer, please do not hesitate to get in touch with either [email protected] or [email protected].
We want to reassure you all that, alongside partners, the council continues to do everything possible to get the city back better and stronger, and to support our residents, businesses and communities in the coming days.
-Cllr Kelly Chequer, Deputy Leader of Sunderland City Council and Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Safer Communities