Only three months ago, sporadic violence broke out in towns and cities across the United Kingdom. Frighteningly, the majority of rioters – 51.8% to be precise - were below the age of 20. Although the original riots were caused by the death of Mark Duggan, there were several who tried to justify their actions for alternative reasons, from poor treatment by the police through to high levels of unemployment and government cuts. This may have painted a portrait of Britain in severe depression from the economic crisis but there are two sides to every story; and this is no different.
The British are a pro-active people and no sooner had the riots finished than hundreds of Facebook users and ‘Twitterers’ were on the streets of London and Liverpool, cleaning up the carnage that was left behind. The selfless actions of these 500 or so people, shows on a micro-scale just how much we as a country care about our communities, even in times of individual economic hardship. The last two weekends have given further evidence of this remarkable attitude, with Remembrance Sunday and Children In Need on Friday.
Americans are repeatedly cited for both their patriotism, and unwavering support of their military. I believe, in both respects, that the British people are extremely similar, but the cynical tabloid press can frame the debate to suggest that our society is on a largely negative plane. But this does not explain how or why the whole country, quite rightly, comes together to remember for one day to remember those who have given so much to protect us and our loved ones.
These emotions are evoked in us all on 11th November, from sportsmen on the field right through to accountants in Croydon. Armistice Day is simply part of the heartbeat of Britain, and instils within us, an enduring reminder that we should have pride in our brave armed forces. I think it is comforting that whatever the future may hold, liberal or conservative, growth or recession, Edward or Jacob, red or black, deal or no deal (I promise I will stop now), charities continue to inspire us all, whatever walk of life.
Children in Need and Comic Relief are unique projects. The figureheads put in a great deal of organisation at the top table to make sure that all sorts of grass roots projects can inject their passion and ingenuity, coalescing with charities overseas and here at home. According to BBC Statistics, since the recession hit in 2008, fundraising totals for Children in Need have increased by two million pound in the average year. This is even more remarkable, given that a third of all fundraising comes from the nation’s purses and wallets. This shows that even when we have felt the pinch in our everyday lives, and even when the charity single has destroyed a classic (if you haven’t heard it, don’t), the British public have continued to generously give, to those whose need is ultimately greater than our own, across the globe.
Overall, I wanted this post to serve as a notice that all in Britain is not as bad as it may seem in the Fleet Street newspapers. We should take pride that even in times of trouble; our society is an extremely humbling and heartwarming place, if you should dig deep enough.
Love Chips x