GMB London Region statement on the independent review into antisemitism in schools and colleges

Reacting to the publication of the independent review into antisemitism in schools and colleges, Warren Kenny, GMB London Region Secretary said: 

"For Jewish school support staff, antisemitism is both something they witness and something they suffer.

"They come to work to look after children. They deserve to do that free from hate, with an employer who believes them, backs them and acts when they are targeted.

"Today Sir David Bell’s review into antisemitism in schools goes before Parliament. GMB welcomes it. You cannot tackle what you will not name.

"Its findings show how far there is to go. Three in five Jewish students say they have experienced antisemitism. Fewer than half of students think it would be dealt with if reported.

"A system that children do not trust will not protect staff either. So the review must reach every member of staff.

"Jewish colleagues need to know a complaint will be taken seriously. Every support worker needs training to recognise antisemitism and stop it, and the confidence to report it.

"A school is where a country teaches its children who it intends to be. Our members keep that promise every day. Give them the tools to keep it for every Jewish child and every Jewish colleague.

"Naming antisemitism does not narrow the fight against hate. It sharpens it. GMB will challenge all forms of abuse and discrimination, wherever they appear and whoever they target."