Southampton Demonstrations: Key individual networks (KINS) update from A/Inspector Richards, Southampton North Neighbourhood Policing Team – Monday 22 December 2025

“Dear Kins.

I am writing to provide an update regarding the recent protest activity within the Portswood area and to address some concerns raised about behaviours and speech used during these events.

Friday 19 December 2025
Approximately 25 demonstrators attended, along with a small number of counter-protesters. The event was managed using local resources.

Saturday 20 December 2025
Approximately 7–8 Patriots attended; no counter-protesters were present. No formal protest took place, and attendees left after positive engagement with police.

Sunday 21 December 2025
No protesters or counter-protesters attended.

A Section 34 dispersal was pre-authorised for each day; however, there was no requirement to use this policing power, and no arrests were made.

Legal Context

Under the Human Rights Act (ECHR Articles 9, 10, and 11), individuals have the right to freedom of thought, expression, and peaceful assembly—even if views expressed are offensive or shocking.

Article 10 provides: “This can include the right to say things which, though lawful, others may find disturbing, upsetting or offensive… It can extend to the right to say things which may shock or disturb the listener.”  (Source: UK Government Joint Select Committee guidance on Freedom of Speech)

However, these rights are not unlimited. Public authorities may impose restrictions if lawful, necessary, and proportionate to protect national security or public safety, prevent disorder or crime, or protect the rights and reputations of others. On this occasion, the threshold was not met to impose any conditions.

Criticism of religion is not prohibited by UK law and does not need to be polite. Speech that shocks or offends can still be protected. Speech that incites or stirs up religious hatred is not protected and may constitute a criminal offence.

Targeted abuse against individuals based on perceived religion or race, causing harassment, alarm, or distress, is not legitimate protest and may amount to a public order offence requiring police intervention.

Post-Event Review and Decision-Making

Following any event, Body-Worn Video and/or CCTV footage is reviewed to assess whether any behaviours and speech used fell outside the scope of lawful protest. Not all incidents are addressed immediately at the scene, as officers must risk-assess whether it is safe and appropriate to prevent further disorder. This includes determining whether immediate intervention is proportionate and safe, or whether an investigation should commence post-event.

There is no general law banning megaphones in public. Using a megaphone during lawful, peaceful protest is permitted. However, restrictions may apply in certain areas or circumstances if noise causes serious disruption.

We continue to monitor the situation closely and remain in regular contact with community representatives to ensure a balanced and safe approach to any future gatherings. A proportionate policing plan remains in place, and we will continue to work closely with you and the wider community to manage these events safely and effectively.

Please be reassured that our priority is the safety and wellbeing of all communities. We are committed to maintaining open communication, addressing concerns promptly, and ensuring that lawful protest does not cross into criminal behaviour. Your feedback and partnership are vital in helping us achieve this.

If you have any information or concerns, please contact us via online reporting, by calling 101 for non-emergencies, or 999 in an emergency:

https://www.hampshire.police.uk

Regards,

Yozanne

A/Inspector 21260 Yozanne Richards

Southampton North Neighbourhood Policing Team

Portswood Police Station  “