Responding to the unrest seen across the country in recent days, Andy Smith, ADCS President, said:

 “Racism, violence and hate have no place in our communities and cannot be tolerated. In recent days we have seen abhorrent acts of violence, disorder, and vandalism across the country. While the unacceptable views and acts of some individuals do not represent those held by the majority of people in this country, we cannot overstate the deep impact the events of the past few days will have on our children, their families and on our staff. As leaders of children’s services, we have a responsibility to acknowledge and shine a light on racial and social injustices faced by children, families and those who work with them, and to stand up as accomplices for change. The deliberate targeting of asylum seekers, many of whom have fled war torn countries seeking safety, has been particularly shocking.”

 ENDS