Community response to current events in Israel and Gaza – 26/10/23
| 26 October 2023 Please see below this week’s shared information briefing. Each organisation’s social media channels are linked below. Please follow these as trusted sources of information. Hertfordshire Constabulary Our proactive patrols have continued over the past week, to provide reassurance to all members of the public across Hertsmere, including the 18,000 members of the Jewish community. These will continue as we work with our local partners to ensure that people feel safe and supported. Since 7 October, police within Hertsmere have received 40 reports related to the conflict in Israel and Gaza. The majority of these concerns have been swiftly dealt with through police engagement, resulting in no offences being identified. Five of the reports have, however, been recorded as crimes – which include public order and criminal damage offences- and enquiries are continuing at this time, with support being provided to victims. Two non-crime hate incidents have also been recorded within Hertsmere. All reports of hate crime are reviewed by a dedicated hate crime officer, who will contact victims to offer support. We’d like to thank everyone who has reported any concerns to us so far and would encourage people to continue to do so. If you believe a crime is in progress or someone is in danger, please call 999 immediately. Any other concerns or information can be reported to police via the non-emergency reporting methods. X/Twitter: @HertsPolice Facebook @Herts Police Community Security Trust As of Wednesday 25 October, the CST recorded 704 incidents nationally since 7 October. To put that into context, during the first 6 months of this year, there were a total of 803 incidents. Locally, there have been 16 in Hertfordshire since 7 October. Please continue to check CST social media for recent incident updates. The community are still feeling vulnerable, and we thank the police for their operational support, including reassurance patrols. We also thank the police for their assistance in policing the various demos and we recognise the complexities of these operations. CST_UK | Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktree Hertsmere Borough Council The Mayor’s annual Hertsmere’s Civic Celebration took place on Sunday 22 October. The event was focussed on celebrating the diversity of our borough with contributions from across the religious and non-faith spectrum to represent our diverse communities. See our social media post here. Mental Health Services The following services are available to residents of Hertsmere to support their mental health. We are working with partners to see how provision can be bolstered. The TogetherAll, which is an online anonymous mental health community monitored by professionals. It offers a range of support, courses and advice. Hertfordshire residents over 16 can register for free – just select ‘my area is registered’ and enter your postcode. NHS Every Mind Matters – Get expert advice and practical tips, try the ‘How are you?; quiz or create a tailored self-care plan to support your mental health and wellbeing The Five Ways to Wellbeing – feel happier, more positive and able to get the most from life Jami – provides mental health support to the Jewish Community Herts Mind Network – provide services including peer support, group activities, counselling and a crisis helpline. Provided online, over the phone or from Number 10 on Leeming Road, Borehamwood. Hertfordshire County Council have produced a mental health resource booklet providing information about services available in the community. Should anyone wish to order physical copies of this, please contact communityservices@hertsmere.gov.uk. X/Twitter: HertsmereBC ; Facebook: Hertsmere ; Instagram: HertsmereBC ; LinkedIn HertsmereBC  |