The latest KINs message from the Police regarding upcoming planned protests over the Henry Nowak Trial – 31 May 2026

“Good afternoon,

See below the latest update from the Chief Inspector Chris Douglas:

Thank you for your continued engagement, support and commitment to the city.

I wanted to provide you with an update following recent protest activity within Southampton and outline the steps being taken to manage the ongoing situation.

On Thursday, a protest took place at Southampton Central Police Station, attracting approximately 80 individuals. The event passed without disorder and there were no arrests. A number of live streams were broadcast across several online platforms, including those linked to March for England and UK Sploosh. The associated online commentary has, at times, been negative towards policing, and we continue to actively monitor this.

The majority of online hate and threats are primarily directed towards policing and the officers involved in the incident, with very limited commentary targeting other parts of the community; however, this continues to be closely monitored.

Since the protest, there has been extensive engagement with key stakeholders, including community leaders, faith groups and local authority partners. This work remains a key priority to ensure reassurance, maintain trust and support community cohesion. I would also like to recognise the ongoing support of the local authority, particularly around engagement and security activity.

We are currently preparing for further anticipated protest activity, including a planned gathering at Portswood High Street Police Station today. We have sufficient policing resources in place and a well-established public order command structure to manage this safely and proportionately.

Alongside this, we are awaiting the sentencing outcome in the recent murder trial. We anticipate this may generate further attention and commentary, and we continue to track intelligence and online sentiment closely to inform our response.

Our priority throughout remains the safety of the public, the confidence of our communities, and the proportionate and professional management of any protest or related activity.

Given the current level of demand and ongoing activity, there may be times where responses to queries are not as prompt as we would like; however, we will endeavour to respond or ensure the right person makes contact.

If you have any information, concerns, or intelligence to share, please use the following routes:

• Emergency: 999
• Non-emergency: 101
• Online reporting: www.hampshire.police.uk
• Anonymous reporting (Crimestoppers): 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org
• Community information sharing (CPI): www.safe4me.co.uk/portfolio/sharing-information/

Thank you again for your continued support.

Kind regards,
Chris

Chief Inspector Chris Douglas 23640

I have also attached details of the free faith security training in this email for your consideration – see below.

Best wishes,

Aleks”

Free Faith Security Training

The Home Office is pleased to announce the launch of Faith Security Training (FST) – a free security awareness scheme designed specifically for faith communities across England and Wales, which will be delivered on behalf of the Home Office by CDS Support.

This training will help you strengthen security practices, mitigate threats, and ensure your places of worship remain safe and secure.

Why take part?

• Gain practical knowledge to protect your congregation and premises.
• Learn how to identify and reduce risks before they become threats.
• Access expert-led training, developed with input from faith and security specialists, designed to ensure all faith communities achieve a foundational level of security knowledge and principles.
• Be part of the government’s Plan for Change, creating safer streets and stronger communities.

Who should attend?
Faith leaders, trustees, facilities managers, volunteers, and anyone with responsibility for security at your place of worship. The training is also suitable for any member of a congregation with an interest in improving security at places of worship.

How is training delivered?

• Face-to-face or virtual classroom sessions with direct access to security experts.
• E-learning modules available soon via ProtectUK for flexible learning.

The scheme is intended as an additional, fully optional resource that participants may draw on if helpful. It is designed to complement any existing security training that individuals or organisations have already undertaken.

Don’t miss this opportunity to upskill your community and safeguard your place of worship. Register now and take the first step towards a safer future. Together, we can support faith communities to stay safe and secure.

If you are interested in participating, please register here.

For further information, please visit the FST webpage, or email contact@cdssupport.uk.

Francesca Prior CMgr FCMI

Service Manager

Stronger Communities

Southampton City Council

Tel: 02380 917868

MOB: 07811165129

Email: francesca.prior@southampton.gov.uk