Resources and support during current racism and violence in UK

We are saddened and deeply shocked by the racist, Islamophobic and Xenophobic attacks happening across the country. As an organisation committed to inclusion, the violence and hatred seen over the past week goes against everything we stand for at Youth Music.

We know these events are affecting many young people we exist to serve, the workforce who work tirelessly to support them, and the communities in which they work. We stand in solidarity with them all.

If you are affected by the events in any way, these resources may be of use:

Organisations

•  The Network of Regional Youth Units, UK Youth and the National Youth Agency:

1. Are hosting three ‘space to connect’ sessions (Thurs 8 Aug 11am -noon, Monday 12 5pm - 6pm and Thurs 15 Aug 3pm - 4pm) for youth workers and other professionals to come together to support one another. 
2. Have produced a useful list of resources to support young people after unrest, disinformation and violence and has guidance on physical security in youth work setting

• Hope not Hate has advice on staying safe amidst far right violence for organisations, community groups and people fearful of being targeted.  
• Saffron Music issued a statement responding to the UK's Race Riots with ways organisations can act.  
•  My Pockets - Just Ignore it film about racism produced by young people, with corresponding anti-racist flyer and anti-racism policy for schools. 

Individuals and young people

• Barnardo’s have a free Boloh helpline offering advice, mental health and practical support to adult asylum seekers.
• Samaritans has a helpline that is contactable 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to talk about anything that is upsetting you.
• Young Minds have information, support and guides for people experiencing mental health.
• Music Minds Matter offer everyone working in the industry tools and support to stay mentally well. Their number is 0808 802 8008.
• Music Support Helpline is managed by mental health-trained peers with lived experience, for anyone working within music and live events. Their number is 0800 030 6789.
• Muslim Youth Helpline provides faith and culturally sensitive support for young Muslims. Their number is 0808 808 2008.
• Black Minds Matter connects Black individuals and families with free professional mental health services across the UK.

Victims of crime

• Victim Support has a free support line to victims of crime – including young people. Their number is 08 08 16 89 111. They also have a live chat function.
• If anyone has experienced a Hate Crime, you can report this online though True Vision where you do not have to visit a police station. Alternatively, Stop Hate UK has a confidential and independent 24 hour helpline service to report all forms of hate crime and discrimination and to get help and support. Please note that this service is only available in some parts of the UK.

Safer Protesting

• Liberty has guidance on practical protest tips to keep you and others safe, as well as 'protest bust cards' in different languages to help people exercise their legal right to protest.

If there is a resource that you think should be added to this page, please email grants@youthmusic.org.uk. This page also contains a multitude of anti-racist information and recommended reading. Thank you.