UK Police Face ‘Chronic Pressure’ Amid Surge in Protests Over Asylum and Gaza

UK Police Face ‘Chronic Pressure’ Amid Surge in Protests Over Asylum and Gaza
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Police forces across the UK have faced a significant surge in protest activity this summer, placing them under mounting and prolonged strain, The Independent reported. According to figures from the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), 3,081 protests occurred between June and August—the highest number in three years.
This marks a substantial rise from 2,942 protests in the same period in 2024 and more than triple the 928 recorded in 2023.

NPCC Chair Gavin Stephens warned that the increasing volume of protests, particularly over asylum housing and the government’s designation of Palestine Action as a terrorist organisation, is putting “chronic pressure” on police. He urged leaders across sectors to help de-escalate rising community tensions, saying: “We all have a responsibility to set the tone.”

Police are bracing for up to 40 additional demonstrations this weekend, including a major protest in London where hundreds are expected to challenge the ban on Palestine Action. Stephens acknowledged officers’ wellbeing is being impacted, citing a recent survey showing 55% of constables suffer from ongoing physical fatigue.

He rejected suggestions of impending civil unrest but warned that current police resources are stretched, affecting their ability to tackle other priorities like knife crime and violence against women. Calling for urgent reform, Stephens highlighted outdated infrastructure, overstretched teams, and inefficient decision-making across England and Wales’ 43 forces. A government white paper on police reform is expected soon, with chiefs advocating for centralized powers and a new funding model.