The report, written by Muslim Aid and called ‘Mind the Gap: A Review of the Voluntary Sector Response to the Grenfell Tragedy’ spoke to members of the community, including Rev Mike Long of Notting Hill Methodist Church to hear what the experience of the voluntary sector was.
The report says: “The consequences of the disaster were compounded by the weak leadership of the response initially led by the local council, which was slow to provide direction, coordination and information and to address multiple pressing needs.”
“Particularly in the first few weeks, this void was filled mainly by the community itself, supported by an array of local organisations.”
The contributions of churches and mosques were praised by the authors: “Assistance was concentrated around nearby churches, mosques and clubs, which provided shelter, received and distributed the huge amounts of food, water and clothing donated by the public and offered comfort to large numbers of distressed people suddenly rendered homeless.”
Notting Hill Methodist Church, St Clement’s and St James, Latymer Community Church and St Francis of Assisi were all mentioned as ones which helped people.
The report details how Latymer Community Church opened at 2am on the night of the fire with others following shortly after.
A press-free zone was created outside the Methodist Church. Prime Minister Theresa May visited…
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