Two of Bristol’s community stations, BCfm and Ujima Radio, have released a new audio documentary, We Don’t Do That Here.
The one-hour programme reflects on the violent disorder that shook the city last summer.
Funded by Bristol City Council’s Community Recovery Fund, the documentary is available now to listen and download.
Alongside the programme, the stations are developing a protocol to guide how community media can respond in times of crisis and public disorder.
The riots of July and August 2024 were the most severe in the UK since 2011. They were triggered by the knife attack in Southport, followed by waves of misinformation online that sparked protests in 27 towns and cities.
In Bristol, tensions escalated around Castle Park and the Mercure Hotel, where asylum seekers were being housed.
Confrontations between protesters, counter-demonstrators and police left the city shaken, with multiple arrests made.
We Don’t Do That Here tells the story of those nights through first-hand testimony. Listeners hear from asylum seekers inside the hotel, local residents, activists, police officers, academics, journalists and charity leaders.
The programme not only documents fear and violence but also moments of solidarity, when ordinary Bristolians stepped in to protect one another.
Marcus Smith, Development Lead at BCfm, said: “These riots left scars, but they also highlighted the resilience and determination of Bristol’s people.
“By capturing voices that are too often left unheard, this documentary helps us understand not just what happened, but how we can respond more wisely and compassionately, now and in the future.”
Miranda Rae, Station Manager at Ujima Radio, added: “Community radio has always been about amplifying local voices, but in times of crisis that role becomes even more vital.
“We Don’t Do That Here is a chance to show how truth, solidarity and storytelling can strengthen communities and offer a blueprint for resilience across the country.”
The documentary is available here.
