Salford City Council has rescinded its initial safeguarding decision against youth worker Ameen Hadi, who was suspended following clashes at an International Women's Day rally in Manchester. The council will now restart the investigation from scratch, after Hadi's solicitors threatened judicial review.
Incident at Piccadilly Gardens
On March 8, newly-elected Green Party MP Hannah Spencer was speaking at an anti-hate rally organized by the Greater Manchester Together Alliance in Piccadilly Gardens. Scuffles broke out between opposing demonstrators, and videos shared online appeared to show Hadi, a Salford council worker, amidst the chaotic scenes. After her speech, MP Spencer was pursued by allegedly far-right YouTube 'auditors' as she left.
Suspension and Arrest
Hadi, a prominent anti-racism campaigner and youth worker, was sent home from work following the incident. He was arrested on March 12 on suspicion of assault, which he strongly denies. The council suspended him on March 11, citing concerns about his suitability to work with children. On March 31, the council determined he had 'behaved in a way that may call into question his suitability to work with children.' Hadi works with young people aged 10 to 26.
Council Reversal
A Salford City Council spokesperson said: 'The decision of March 31 has been set aside, and we will be re-running the process from the start. This will therefore address the concerns regarding the issues that have been raised.' The Manchester Evening News understands the reversal came after Hadi's solicitors indicated they would seek a judicial review. Hadi remains on police bail.
Far-Right Campaign Allegations
Hadi believes he was targeted by a 'far-right campaign' orchestrated by Tommy Robinson, who named Hadi in a social media post. Far-right groups sent a deluge of complaints to the UNISON branch office and Salford Council demanding his dismissal. Hadi's supporters say he is a victim of a malicious smear campaign. Over 3,000 people have signed a petition supporting his reinstatement.
Support from Officials and Unions
MPs including Salford MP Rebecca Long Bailey, councillors, senior trade union figures, and community organizations have backed Hadi. Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett spoke in support of him on the town hall steps. Hadi has worked for Salford Council for over 26 years and is a qualified social worker and youth worker with an unblemished work record.
Hadi's Response
Hadi said: 'They have called it "setting aside" but in effect they have quashed their original decision. Now they are starting the process again with a whole new different team. I am extremely happy that the decision has been set aside.' His supporters are demanding his suspension be lifted and he be allowed to return to work.
