06
March
2026
|
16:17
Europe/London

Statement from Camden’s Interfaith Network Co-Chairs and Council Leader

A statement from Camden’s Interfaith Network Co-Chairs and the Leader of Camden Council on community strength and support - in relation to the war in Iran and wider Middle East

“We know that the war in Iran and the wider Middle East is of great concern to Camden residents and its effects are impacting our communities in many different ways. We recognise this is a worrying time for residents, especially those who have family and friends abroad who are affected.

“International conflicts can have an impact locally. We are very conscious of the troubling prospect of the emergence of hate crime, so if you see or hear anything that concerns you, please do get in touch so action can be taken. This could be criminal damage, graffiti, or written and spoken threats or a slur.  We want our residents to feel safe, and we will not stand for any behaviour that discriminates or makes people feel threatened.

“Camden will not be divided. We know that our communities will be there for each other, and we will work with our partners to support everyone in our diverse communities. We would urge anyone who is fearful or experiences hate crime to get in touch.

“We are here for you.”

Cllr Richard Olszewski, Leader of Camden Council  - Cllr Nadia Shah, Co-Chair of Camden Interfaith Network – Cllr Rebecca Filler, Co-Chair of Camden Interfaith Network 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Further information from Camden Council:

 To report a hate crime:

  • If someone is in danger call the Police on 999. For non-emergencies call 101 or visit your local police station. 

  • For information on how to report online through the Police and trusted partner organisations, visit: www.camden.gov.uk/hate-crime 

  • Call the Council on 020 7974 4444 

  • Even if you don’t report a hate crime straight away, please do report it 

Things you can do to support others in your community  

  • Check in on each other: Even a small gesture like checking in on a neighbour can go a long way.  

  • Report your concerns: If you witness hateful behaviour, please report it and ask the affected person or people if they are ok if it’s safe to do so  

  • Take care of yourself: If you experience hateful behaviour or a hate crime, please get support – see more information on this below.

  • Stay connected: Camden is home to supportive voluntary and community sector organisations, faith buildings, libraries and other places where you can go to relax, meet up with others and get involved in free or low-cost activities. Find out more at Camden.gov.uk/WarmWelcome  

  • Volunteer: there are lots of opportunities to get involved in your local community. Find out more about how you can get involved.   

Mental health support  

  • Find out what is available near you at camden.gov.uk/mental-health  

  • Call the Samaritans for free on 116 123 – they're always open and are there to listen. You can also email jo@samaritans.org and receive a response within 24 hours.  

  • Camden Crisis Sanctuary offers face-to-face, telephone, and online support to Camden residents every evening and weekend, 5pm to 10.30pm. No referral is required. You can also call 07825 165 464 between 5pm and 11pm, or leave a message for staff to call you back.  

  • Phone the 24-hour mental health crisis line on 020 3317 6333 to access specialist support. In an emergency, always call 999.