The MP for Barrow says that the town has had a couple of rough weeks following news that the South Cumbria Town has been impacted badly by Coronavirus and recent revelations with regards to allegations of physical and sexual abuse. He asks for everyone to "remain calm, stay safe, and look after yourselves."
Simon Fell said:
"We've had a rough couple of weeks in Barrow. We've been unjustly attacked in the press. And now tensions are high for other reasons.
"There is an ongoing police investigation and so I am not able comment on the case itself. However, I want to ask four things of you.
"First, be kind. We are in a tinder box, in many cases locked in at home. There is at least one victim in this case. But there are also families and friends who are affected too. What you write online, what you share, and what you say will have consequences. Words matter a great deal. In mental health awareness week, we should all take a moment to think about others before we act, and try to be kind.
"Second, don't hold back information if you think you know something. If you think that you have evidence of child sexual exploitation, grooming or any other crime, reach out. You can tell the Police (999 for emergencies, 101 non-emergency). Or you can alert Crimestoppers (0800 555 111), or approach Women's Community Matters in Barrow (01229 311 102).
"Third, please remember that there is an ongoing Police investigation into these matters. That very fact means that not every piece of information is in the public domain. It is your right to ask questions, but please do not do anything which may jeopardise that investigation. I am closely monitoring this case and will do everything in my power to ensure that victims are protected, and that justice is done.
"Fourth, the past two months have shown that what makes this community great is that it stands together. Whether in the face of a global pandemic, rallying for the Bluebirds to be promoted, or looking out for those on our streets who are most vulnerable, Barrow & Furness is blessed with an excess of people who don't only say they care, but demonstrate it. Right now, when tensions are high, it is easy to scapegoat. But to do that would be wrong. Doing that risks tarring innocent people and opening a box which is very difficult to close. So, please - no matter how hard it may be - I urge you to exercise calm.
"We all want justice for the victims, the truth to come out, and the guilty to be punished. And we all have a role to play in ensuring that the proper process is followed and that this is allowed to happen. So please, remain calm, stay safe, and look after yourselves."
