BCfm and Ujima Radio are proud to announce the release of We Don’t Do That Here, a new one-hour podcast and radio documentary that tells the story of last year’s violent disorder in Bristol. The programme is available now to listen and download, and shines a light on how misinformation, fear, and courage collided on the streets of a city of sanctuary.
The documentary is funded from Bristol City Council’s Community Recovery Fund. Alongside the broadcast, the two stations are developing a pioneering protocol to guide how community media can respond to moments of crisis and public disorder.
The riots of July and August 2024 were the most severe in the UK since 2011. Sparked by a tragic knife attack in Southport and fuelled by false claims circulating online, far-right protests erupted in 27 towns and cities. In Bristol, tensions centred on Castle Park and the Mercure Hotel, where asylum seekers were being housed. The clashes between protesters, counter-demonstrators and police left the city shaken, with multiple arrests made by Avon and Somerset Police.
We Don’t Do That Here brings these events to life through powerful interviews with those who were there: asylum seekers inside the hotel, local residents and activists in the streets, police officers, academics, journalists and charity leaders. The documentary explores the fear and violence of that week, but also the acts of solidarity that saw ordinary Bristolians stand up for one another. It interrogates the role of misinformation and media coverage, while amplifying the quieter voices often lost in mainstream narratives.
Marcus Smith, Development Lead at BCfm Radio, 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 of 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.”
At its heart, this is a story of resilience and resistance. From banners raised in Castle Park to smiles through hotel windows, We Don’t Do That Here asks what it takes to keep a city safe, welcoming and united, and what can the rest of the country learn?
A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR CONTRIBUTORS
Contributors:
Muneera Pilgrim – Creative and Broadcaster
Roger Ball – Academic Researcher
Anonymous – Afghan Asylum Seeker
Jim (Not real name) – Bristol Anti-Fascists
Serena Sergeant – Avon & Somserset Police
Desmond Brown – Growing Futures CIC
Olivia Lamont Bishop – Borderlands Bristol
Maya Mate-Kole – Mwanzo Project
Producers: Marcus Smith (BCfm) & Miranda Rae (Ujima)
Sound Design: George Colwey
Photo Credit: Simon Holliday
Funding: Bristol City Council
Where to listen: Available now on SoundCloud and broadcast on-air on BCfm and Ujima TBC
