Notting Hill Carnival Safety Concerns Spark Police Criticism

A Metropolitan Police Federation survey reveals widespread officer dissatisfaction, while event organizers dispute the findings as biased and flawed.

A survey by the Metropolitan Police Federation found that nearly 90% of officers working at Notting Hill Carnival felt unsafe, with 29% reporting assaults during the event.
The survey, based on 486 officer responses, described the event as a 'war zone' with officers feeling 'overstretched' and 'ineffective' in managing crime and safety concerns.
This year's carnival saw two murders, eight stabbings, and 349 arrests, alongside 61 reported assaults on police officers over the two-day event.
Organizers of Notting Hill Carnival dismissed the survey as part of an 'anti-carnival agenda,' criticizing its methodology and claiming it misrepresents the event's challenges.
Police leaders and event organizers agree that changes are needed, with calls for improved safety measures, clearer accountability, and stronger partnerships to manage the event effectively.