Sefton Council offers support to local communities

Leaders in Sefton are offering ‘whatever it takes’ to support the local community as the community comes to terms with the tragic incident, which took place on Monday.

The local community has been in mourning as people reflect on the events of the last 24 hours that have left everyone ‘shocked and saddened’.

Sefton Council is moving to reassure residents they will do whatever it takes to support the local community as it deals with the impacts of one of the saddest days in the borough’s history.

Councillor Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council, said:

“It has been a tremendously difficult time for the people of Sefton and my heart goes out to everyone who has been affected by what happened yesterday.

“I know our community will stay strong and that has been seen in the truly amazing acts of kindness that have happened since Monday.

“My message to the people of Sefton is that we are here to help you and we will provide you with whatever support is required.

“It will take time for us to come to terms with this but we will stay strong together and the offers of support that we’ve had from across the world are much appreciated.”

Since the incident took place Sefton Council has been working with the police and partners in a major incident response.

A vigil is being held on Tuesday evening, books of condolence are being made available for people to sign and community groups and organisations have been opening up the doors and making generous offers of support.

Those directly affected by the incident are being supported by specially trained officers and a dedicated webpage at sefton.gov.uk has been set up to for anyone who needs access to help and support.

Councillor Atkinson said:

“We’ve been working around the clock to support the local community and I’d like to thank our brave emergency services, council staff and members of the public who have helped in any way,”

“It’s important we all stick together and I know we will come through this stronger.

“If you are affected by this incident in any way please ask for help – talk to your friends and family or visit our dedicated webpage at sefton.gov.uk.”

The council is also urging people not to speculate on social media while the police conduct their enquiries as it may hamper the investigation, affect future court proceedings and cause further distress to the families.

The council’s website will be updated with more information and support as it becomes available.