The Dialogue Society successfully hosted the second session of its Building Community Trust series in Hull, bringing together a diverse group of voices from academia, media, faith communities, and civil society. This panel, titled “Communities, Policing, and Shared Safety,” created a dynamic space for meaningful dialogue on some of the most pressing challenges facing contemporary society, including hate crime, extremism, and social division.
Chaired by Beyza Sahin, the discussion featured distinguished panellists including Professor Simon Green (University of Hull, Director of the Wilberforce Institute), Dr Hakan Gok (Leeds Beckett University), Di Nicholas, , and a Master’s student from the University of York. Together, they offered a rich blend of academic insight, professional experience, and community-based perspectives.
A central theme of the panel was the importance of interfaith relations and cross-sector collaboration in preventing hate crime and fostering long-term community resilience. Speakers emphasised that building trust requires sustained engagement, inclusive dialogue, and shared responsibility between institutions and communities.
Drawing on his extensive research, Professor Simon Green highlighted how hate crime and extremism are often rooted in fear of difference and social division, and how narratives that emphasise differences over shared humanity can fuel tensions . He also addressed systemic challenges in achieving justice for victims, noting that inequalities, structural barriers, and gaps in legal remedies can hinder effective responses to harm . His contribution underscored the need for evidence-based policy, victim-centred approaches, and stronger partnerships between research, practice, and communities.
The panel further explored:
- Empowering communities to prevent radicalisation and promote peace
- Moving from dialogue to action in strengthening social cohesion
- The role of leadership and local engagement in building lasting trust and mutual understanding
Participants engaged in a thoughtful and respectful discussion, reflecting on real-world challenges while identifying practical pathways toward safer, more cohesive communities.
The event concluded with a strong sense of shared purpose and commitment. As part of an ongoing series, Building Community Trust continues to provide a vital platform for dialogue, collaboration, and action across sectors.
