A shocking spate of racist and violent incidents targeting migrant care workers in Stockbridge Village, Merseyside, has been condemned as 'abhorrent' by local leaders. Employees of Caring Connections, a care charity providing home care and palliative support, have reported being spat at, chased, threatened with weapons, and subjected to racial abuse in recent weeks.
Staff Live in Fear
One Nigerian worker, who spoke anonymously due to safety fears, described the harassment: 'Sometimes the kids can be so horrible. They spit at you then get away on their electric bikes.' He recounted a recent incident where four young men approached him, initially feigning friendliness before hurling insults and shooting a toy gun at him. The abuse is often racially motivated, with workers being told to 'get out of our country.'
The 35-year-old, employed by Caring Connections for three years, added: 'They say horrible foul language directed at my race. Other colleagues have had water splashed on them or stones thrown. It only happens to non-white staff. I feel depressed and scared to do my job.'
CEO Calls for Action
Paul Growney, CEO of Caring Connections, noted that the workforce has shifted from predominantly white British to 60% migrant workers from Nigeria, Bangladesh, Nepal, and other countries, due to skilled worker visas. He said staff initially accepted the abuse as 'normal' but now fear for their safety. Incidents include verbal abuse, spitting, pouring drinks (suspected of being acid), and toy gun attacks.
Growney has urged Merseyside Police to increase patrols and install CCTV in the area. 'We've had to employ drivers to escort staff because they aren't safe walking alone. We can't afford private security. This minority doesn't represent Liverpool or Knowsley,' he said.
Community and Police Response
Knowsley Council leader Cllr Graham Morgan called the behaviour 'inexcusable' and pledged to work with police to identify offenders. Chief Inspector Rob Budden of Merseyside Police stated: 'Targeting those helping the community is despicable. We encourage reporting of all incidents.' Hate crime reporting can be done via 101, Crimestoppers (0800 555 111), or Stop Hate UK (0800 138 1625).
Growney added: 'We need education and a political climate that doesn't foster division. These workers bring immense value to our community.'
