In August 2024, cities across the United Kingdom—and Hull in particular—experienced widespread anti-immigration disorder, racist violence, and public unrest that shook local communities. For women of colour, asylum seekers, and minoritised families, the sudden wave of hostility created overwhelming fear, distress, and trauma.
During the height of the unrest, Hull Sisters faced severe operational challenges. To protect the physical safety of staff, volunteers, and service users, our centre was forced to temporarily close its doors as many women felt completely unable to leave their homes. In national and regional broadcasts with the BBC and ITV News, founder Sonia Jalal articulated the terrifying realities confronting our members, emphasizing that targeted hate crimes and public intimidation directly threaten the basic dignity and mobility of vulnerable families.
Recognizing the urgent need to maintain contact with isolated women, Hull Sisters extended the frontline role of our dedicated Outreach Officer, originally funded through the Crime Reduction Fund. Our outreach team conducted welfare checks, delivered emergency supplies directly to doorsteps, and provided telephone emotional support to ensure that no mother was left without food, infant formula, or reassurance while confined to her home.
The unrest highlighted the vital importance of grassroots sanctuaries. Hull Sisters continues to work closely with Humberside Police, community cohesion teams, and regional safety forums to champion long-term protection strategies, standing as an unyielding pillar of safety, dignity, and solidarity for women across Hull.
