Hertfordshire Local Resilience Forum response to civil disturbances across the country

A message from Alex Woodman, Chief Fire Officer and Chair of the Hertfordshire Strategic Co-ordination Group (SCG)

We have all seen the scenes of violence and disorder across the country over the past week and we recognise the concern and worry our residents are feeling. I have activated the county’s Strategic Co-ordination Group (SCG) to ensure we are prepared and closely monitoring the situation in Hertfordshire.  

We are aware of rumours and speculation circulating online which reference possible ‘gatherings’ in Hertfordshire. Disinformation has been a huge driver of the appalling violence we have seen across the country, and we know a lot of those taking part are doing so in direct response to what they’ve read online. We want to reassure the community that Hertfordshire Constabulary have additional resources on duty, despite no confirmed evidence of any so-called events locally.

At this time, please reassure your communities of the ongoing work we are doing and encourage them to follow official sources of information for updates, such as Hertfordshire Constabulary. We are also asking that people refrain from sharing information about ‘gatherings’ in any way as it may only serve to increase fear and tension.

The SCG will continue to meet regularly to continually assess the situation across the county and respond to any disorder that may occur.

We would encourage you to report any disinformation and criminal behaviour to the police on 101 or by calling 999 if there is a crime in progress.

Our ability to listen and respond to our communities is hugely important at this time and we all have a responsibility around reassurance as we move ahead. 

Very best wishes 

Chief Fire Officer Alex Woodman