Following the tragic attack in Southport and the resulting violence targeted at Muslims, People of Colour and people seeking asylum, Home-Start UK chief executive, Peter Grigg, has shared this reaction:

"Childhood should be the most joyful moment and it is a tragedy Bebe, Elsie and Alice will never enjoy growing up. Home-Start UK's heart and thoughts are with the families of these young girls and the wider community impacted by this terrible trauma. Our gratitude goes to colleagues and volunteers at Home-Start Southport & Formby working tirelessly to support families at this difficult time - seeking to create some sense of normality for children in the community.

As this tragedy is used as an excuse by those seeking to create fear and division, Home-Start UK stands alongside all communities seeking tolerance and compassion at this time and in solidarity with colleagues and friends – particularly global majority families and those who have settled in this country - who have been made to feel scared and unsafe in their own communities.

At Home-Start, we stand by those leading with empathy to unite against ignorance, violence and hate. All children deserve a safe childhood and Home-Start will continue to play our part in building compassionate communities for all families and children."

Peter Grigg,
Chief Executive
Home-Start UK