Overview

• NPCC figures show June–August totals exceeded last summer’s 2,942 during the riots and far outstripped 2023’s 928.
• Recent protest waves centered on opposition to the Palestine Action ban and demonstrations at hotels housing asylum seekers.
• NPCC chair Gavin Stephens said most events were peaceful but some were infiltrated by people intent on criminality, pulling officers from local duties and adding financial strain.
• He urged public figures and online audiences to avoid divisive or unlawful content, noting that online activity can trigger real‑world disorder.
• Policing leaders called for structural and funding changes across forces, with a government white paper on potential reforms expected in the coming months.