Business leaders express solidarity in wake of protests – as police issue advice to firms

Business leaders in Greater Birmingham have condemned the violence and expressed solidarity towards businesses and their employees in the wake of disorder across the country over the past week.

It comes as West Midlands Police issued advice to firms after reports emerged of planned protests in the Birmingham area.

According to reports, some businesses in the city’s Jewellery Quarter shut early yesterday due to rumours of further protests.

However, West Midlands police said there had been “no reported disorder or any arrests made” last night.

Henrietta Brealey (pictured), chief executive of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “The violent incidents that we have seen in recent days are beyond appalling. Diversity, of our city-region and country, is a strength not a weakness. Our thoughts go out to those impacted, whether that’s in areas directly affected or our colleagues, friends and neighbours who may be feeling anxious and uneasy at this time. 

“There remains a huge amount of disinformation out there. For businesses, as for individuals, it is critical to ensure that you are seeking your updates from reliable sources. We recommend that you follow the guidance provided by West Midlands Police.

“The past few days have also shown many acts of compassion and solidarity across communities, something which feels far more like the UK we know than the recent headlines.

“For many, particularly those from ethnic minority groups, the unrest may have made the UK seem a far more hostile place.

“We also recommend being mindful of the impact that these events may be having on your staff and their sense of safety and wellbeing, whether that be in travelling to and from work or their sense of inclusion in the workplace.”

Superintendent Emlyn Richards from Birmingham’s Local Policing Area, said: “The West Midlands has not seen the kind of disruption other parts of the country have experienced. We are not complacent and we recognise that people are worried because of rumours, and what they’re seeing in the news and on social media. 

“We have large numbers of skilled officers on patrol and others ready to respond to emergencies. We are continually assessing all available information, reviewing our plans and talking to our partners every day.” 

West Midlands Police Top Tips for Businesses:

Our neighbourhood policing teams have been out speaking to shopkeepers and other businesses about what we’re doing to keep people safe.  

It’s clear that they’re hearing lots of rumours and false information online, which is making them and their staff worried.  

Here’s six practical things business can do to stay open and stay safe: 

1. If you’re part of a chain, speak to your head office about your company’s policies and make sure your staff know all of the safety and security procedures they need to follow. This includes making sure things like alarms, locks and CCTV are working. 

2. If you’re an independent business, you should have your own business continuity plan. Make sure that’s up to date and your staff know all of the safety and security procedures they need to follow. This includes making sure things like alarms, locks and CCTV are working 

3. Talk to other business near you and think about how you communicate with each other. Some will be part of things like Business Improvement Districts, Pub Watch or Retail Radio schemes. You may want to think about starting your own chat groups on WhatsApp, Telegram or other apps. 

4. Tell us about rumours you’re hearing. This will help shape our policing plans.  

5. Sign up to WMNow.co.uk for updates on policing in your area 

6. Follow us on social media for the most accurate and up to date information 

Remember, you know your business, staff, customers and community better than anyone. You must make decisions that are right for you.  

• InternetMatters.org has good advice about misinformation, fake news and how to spot it online 
• If you know who’s responsible for crime and antisocial behaviour in your area, tell the charity Crimestoppers. They’ll never ask for your name or trace your call and you may be entitled to a cash reward  
• For business safety and security advice > Crime Prevention (nbcc.police.uk)