Like you, we are deeply shocked and saddened by the terrorist attack at Heaton Park Synagogue in Manchester yesterday. That this happened during Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, makes this tragedy even more painful. On behalf of everyone at NCVO, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and communities affected, and we stand in full solidarity with the Jewish community.
The Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue is itself a registered charity. Yesterday’s events are a stark reminder that many charities, from faith groups to those supporting refugees and marginalised communities, are increasingly facing threats of violence, intimidation and hatred. Every day, charities and community organisations play a vital role in helping people feel seen, safe, connected and supported. They should be able deliver against their missions, free from fear.
This attack did not happen in a vacuum. Rising extremism, and all forms of hate, threatens the safety of communities and the cohesion of our society.
We know there is an increased need for vigilance and solidarity across the sector and encourage any voluntary organisation that might be worried to access our help and guidance online. Our small charity helpdesk is on hand to provide you with the guidance or information you need.
In the coming days, NCVO will:
Sadly, this horrific act of terrorism is not a one off. Only last year, communities were left devasted by the attacks in Southport. As communities yet again come together to pick up the pieces, it is important that we, once and for all, have real, meaningful and enduring conversations about how we build social cohesion and address the division that is growing in our society.
Charities will play a vital, and central, role in that work.
As such, it is crucial that the Government engage with and listen to the sector, so that the experiences of charities and the communities they support are central to building a future, better, society free from hate.
