General Safety Advice: Far-right violence (August 2025)

Most people are kind and caring. But some far-right groups and individuals are targeting people – especially those who are Black, Brown, Muslim, migrants, or don’t “look” like white British citizens. This violence isn’t new. It’s part of a long history of racism in the UK. But we are not alone. We belong to strong communities that care for each other.

This guide offers practical ways to stay safe, get support, and look out for each other.

Feeling anxious? You don’t have to read everything at once. You can read with someone you trust or just pick a section that feels useful.

Out and About: Staying Alert and Prepared

Be prepared

• Stay updated through trusted local news or community channels.
• Avoid fake news on social media – check the sources.
• Charge your phone and bring a power bank.
• Add emergency contacts to your phone.
• Plan your route using streets you know.
• Stick to well-lit, busy areas at night.
• Travel with someone where possible.
• Tell someone your plans and set a check-in time.
• Use Live Location sharing on WhatsApp or iPhone

Be aware of your surroundings

• Pay attention to who and what is around you. Notice if anything feels wrong (like a group gathering or someone acting strangely.) 
• Avoid wearing headphones so you can hear what’s happening.
• Avoid looking down at your phone while walking so you can stay aware.
• Trust your feelings. If you feel unsafe, go somewhere safe like a shop or café

In the moment: handling harassment 

if someone is try to scare or upset you

Harassment does not always mean being physically attacked. Sometimes people use words, gestures, body language, or filming to try to scare you, intimidate you, make you feel small, uncomfortable or unsafe. Your feelings are real. You don’t have to explain or justify them. Your safety is important, even if no one helps at the time.

• Stay calm. Walk away if you can.
• Avoid arguing or fighting back.
• Try to keep space or an object (bench, car, bin) between you and the person.  
• Ask others nearby for help.
• Go somewhere safe where there are people e.g. a shop or cafe

If someone films you

• Stay calm. Try not to react.
• Walk away if you feel safe to do so
• You can say: “I do not want to answer your question.”
• Avoid swearing or arguing – they may post it online to try and make you look bad.
• Try to move into a private space. For example, if you are in the hotel foyer then go to your room.
• If you feel unsafe, call 999.
  

After a racist attack: What you can do

Practical steps

• You can report it to the police by calling 101 or online.
• You can report it as a hate crime at:  www.report-it.org.uk
• You can report anonymously to Crime Stoppers: 0800 555 111
• The police should not ask about your immigration status when you report a crime.
• If you are hurt, go to A&E. You have the right to emergency healthcare no matter your immigration status.

Emotional aftercare

• What happened was not your fault.
• These incidents can make you feel shaky, upset, angry or numb. All feelings are okay. 
• Be kind to yourself. Rest. Eat. Switch off from social media or the news.
• Talk to someone you trust. Don’t carry it alone.
• Reach out to a local community group – they are here to support you. 

If you witness racist harassment

If it feels safe for you, you can support the person who is being targeted. We have the power to help keep each other safe and show care.  One way to do this is by using the “5 D’s” of Bystander Intervention: 

• DISTRACT: Talk to the person who is being harassed. Say something that is not about the harassment – ask for directions, what time is it, what bus stop is next. Ignore the person doing the harassment.
• DELEGATE: Ask someone nearby to help. Choose someone who may have authority – like a bus driver, security guard, or staff. Do not call the police unless the person says it is okay – not everyone feels safe with the police. 
• DOCUMENT: Only record (video or notes) if someone is already helping the person being harassed. Always ask the person if it is okay to record. Ask them what they want to do with the video or notes – never post online without permission
• DELAY: Even after the incident, you can support the person.Ask if they are okay.  Ask if there is anything you can do to help.
• DIRECT: Only do this if it is safe for you and will not make the situation worse. Speak clearly to the person doing harm. Tell them their behaviour is wrong. Keep it short and stay calm.

More information about Bystander Intervention can be found here. If you see something upsetting, it’s normal to feel shaken. Talk to someone you trust and take care of yourself.

Safety for organisers, activists and campaigners

Organisers may sometimes be targeted by those trying to intimidate or disrupt events. This can feel unsettling, but you are not alone. Planning ahead, staying connected, and looking out for each other can help keep everyone safer.

• Don’t post names, faces, or real-time locations online unless essential.
• Trolls are people who try to make you angry or scared online. They often want attention or want to start a fight. Ignore them. Don’t reply. Block and report abusive accounts.
• You don’t have to speak to the press. It’s okay to say no.
• Make a safety plan with your team. Share check-ins and debriefs.
• Plan emotional aftercare and know who’s checking in with who.
• Far-right groups may film, follow or name organisers. Stay alert and protect each other.
  

If someone shares your personal information online (this is called “doxxing”):

• Tell someone you trust and ask for support.
• Contact a digital security organisation or a legal advisor for help.
• You can also use tools like the Digital First Aid Kit  and Right to Be’s online harassment resources

Protesting when you have insecure immigration status 

You have the right to protest but there may be extra risks:

• Police contact could lead to arrest or detention.
• It could impact future applications for ILR or citizenship especially if you are arrested

The risk is real, but it doesn’t always lead to problems and depends on the situation. Not everyone who joins protests will face problems. Be prepared, not scared. Understanding the risks helps you protect yourself, make informed decisions and take action safely.

Before attending:

• Read this essential guide: JCWI Immigration advice for protestors
• Download a Green and Black Cross Bustcard. 
• Check if the protest includes direct actions – these can increase your risk of contact with the police.
  Examples include:
  • Blocking roads
  • Entering buildings without permission (this is called trespass)
  • Staying in a place after being asked to leave by the police
• Don’t go alone. Travel with someone you trust and arrange check-ins.
• Ask the organisers what is planned so you can make informed decisions about your safety.

On the day:

• Try not to arrive or leave a protest alone as this can make you more vulnerable to police or far-right harassment. Travel with a buddy, or arrange check-ins before, during, and after the protest.
• Trusted British citizens can act in solidarity by positioning themselves between you and police and speak up if you are being questioned. 
• Be ready to film interactions with police using livestream (Instagram/YouTube). Clearly state: “I’m filming for my safety.”
• Do not film others without permission. Do not post online without permission.
• Do not carry identifying documents or Home Office letters with you unless you need them. If you are stopped or searched, having documents on you could lead to information-sharing with the Home Office
  

if you are arrested:

Don’t panic. Remember your protest rights (from Green & Black Cross):

• No Comment: You don’t have to answer police questions.
• No Personal Details: You don’t have to give them during stop and search.
  No Duty Solicitor: Ask for a trusted protest solicitor
• No Caution: Don’t accept one without legal advice.
• What Power?: Ask the police what power they’re using.

Green & Black Cross have more resources on arrest at protests here.

Not everyone has to be on the frontline.  Support roles are just as important:

• Provide water, snacks or emotional support.
• Coordinate check-ins.
• Monitor from a distance and communicate with the group.
  Handle press, logistics or accessibility.
• Just being present as a witness is powerful.