Statement of support from Barnsley CVS

As the local support body for voluntary and community organisations in Barnsley, we utterly condemn the violent disorder perpetrated over the last five days. This is not representative of the voluntary and community organisations we work with or the areas and communities they jointly support. Together, we support and represent voluntary and community sector groups across Barnsley who work hard to build communities, tackle disadvantage and build positive futures.

We stand in solidarity with the communities affected. We stand to support those individuals and families who are the victims of hate. We offer our support to the community groups and charities who impacted by these actions and will be starting the necessary work of rebuilding lives and communities.

We will be working with our members across Barnsley and our colleagues in the council to support the communities affected today and long into the future as the vital community rebuilding takes place.

Please check in with your staff, clients and volunteers to hear how they are, reassure them and ask what they need.

We are here for you and your communities to bring hope and support in times where things feel bleak. Please reach out if you need to talk to us.