SOUTHPORT DEVASTATION LEADS TO COMMUNITY KINDNESS & SUPPORT
On Monday 29th July, Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and nine-year-old Alice Dasilva Aguiar died after a knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance and yoga in the Merseyside town on Monday. Many more casualties remain in hospital, including adults who acted heroically in attempt to protect the children during the horrific incident.
Following this tragedy, a team of local residents have established a voluntary security group to provide protection around the town, focusing on areas such as children’s play centres, summer holiday camps, and other vulnerable spots. Parents, business owners, and other community members feel relieved to have these measures in place during such distressing and frightening times.
Recia Lawrenson & Graeme Roney, organisers of the voluntary group known as VSS Security have written the following: “We would like to ask if anyone can help us by providing PPE and/or body cams for our voluntary, licensed security members. We are not doing this for any money, just to help out and give our time to allow parent’s some peace of mind.”
The work that VVS Security have already started to carry out has been much appreciated by parents, business owners and the whole local community. Without hesitation, the entire team at the Security Industry Federation Trade Union would like to extend a huge well done and thank you to all members of the VVS Security.
SIG General Secretary, Daniel Garnham, visited VSS Security members in their opening week. Daniel writes:
“Today, I had the privilege of meeting the organisers and volunteers of VSS Security. I am deeply impressed by their commitment to safeguarding their local community. Their actions exemplify true protection, making a significant and positive impact. Each member of VSS Security has my utmost respect, and I wish them all the best as they continue their vital work.”
In support of their efforts, Daniel provided refreshments to help the team through their shifts in the warm weather. Our team remains dedicated to sourcing PPE and BodyCams to further assist them.
Undoubtedly, living and working in Southport this week has been devastating and worrying for everyone. Knowing that members of the security industry are volunteering hours of work to ensure people feel safe every day is a testament to the dedication of your job role and your character as community members. If you are local to Southport and would like to volunteer as a Security Officer, or if you are able to provide PPE or Body Cams, please get in touch by email: vsssec730@gmail.com
