Statement in response to Greater Manchester Police incident

The Executive Board, staff and members of Leeds GATE are deeply troubled by the treatment of Gypsy and Traveller young people by Greater Manchester Police last weekend, 23rd November 2024.

The actions of the police exposed young people (including our own young people) to significant harm – both physically and emotionally during the operation and in terms of their ongoing safety and wellbeing.

From what we understand, the treatment was targeted and the young people were racially profiled and treated differently to their non Gypsy and Traveller peers. This is racism.

We condemn the actions of GMP and demand an investigation and accountability.

These actions, no doubt, will have a wide impact and spark painful memories of current and past experiences with the police for Gypsy and Traveller communities. That we also dealt with an incident of violence from a similar institution to Gypsy and Traveller children last year, is unacceptable.

We need to see that, at an institutional level, people can be held accountable, learn from their mistakes, apologise and do better. We are working hard to try and seek justice and affect change and are working closely with other organisations in our sector to do this. 

We are contacting our key partners to make them aware of what has happened and ask them to also raise concerns and be allies in our response. 

We are supporting members affected to report incidents and with ongoing support and care, including through hosting sessions for our young people.

If you are in West Yorkshire and are affected by this incident, or would like to report another incident with our support, you can contact us on 0113 240 2444 and ask for Louise. 

Our thoughts are with all the affected families at this distressing time. We stand in solidarity with all those affected by police violence. 

Elizabeth Spaven (Chair) Ellie Rogers (CEO)