Working with the Islamic community

On December 4, 2013, a ‘Stop The Hate’ conference was held in Chelmsford, involving 220 delegates from a wide range of organisations.  This led to a ‘Report It To Sort It’ initiative being launched across Essex.

I am aware of the statement from Tell Mama.  We had a useful meeting several months ago, and I am continuing to work with many members and organisations who form part of the Islamic community, particularly here in Essex.

We have provided funding of over £18,000 to an initiative called ‘Show Racism the Red Card’, focusing on young people and highlighting the dangers of racism using football as an enabling tool. This is being rolled out in Southend, Harlow, Thurrock and Colchester.

I have personally visited and spoken with members of the Islamic community in Harlow and Southend.

Essex Police has a number of dedicated Hate Crime officers and is in the process of developing hate incident reporting centres and hate crime ambassadors across the county.  Victims of hate crime are encouraged to contact Essex Police directly, but we are aware that more can always be done.

I would be happy to meet with Tell Mama again to continue our important dialogue.

 Nick Alston, Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex