Labour MP Kim Leadbeater has described the UK’s first National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism as an “important but emotional day”, following an event bringing together survivors, bereaved families and first responders.
The Batley and Spen MP attended the inaugural national day on 21 August, which was established to recognise and remember those whose lives have been affected by terrorism.
Writing on X following the event, Leadbeater said: “There are some clubs you never want to be a member of.”
She added:
“An important but emotional day at the first ever UK National Day for Victims & Survivors of Terrorism, with powerful speeches & contributions from survivors, bereaved families & first responders.”
Leadbeater’s words carry particular personal significance. Her sister, Labour MP Jo Cox, was murdered in 2016 in a terrorist attack in her Batley and Spen constituency.
The first national day brought together people affected by different terrorist attacks, giving survivors and bereaved families an opportunity to share their experiences and ensuring those who lost their lives are remembered.
First responders were also recognised for the role they play both during attacks and in supporting communities through their aftermath.
Leadbeater shared images from the event alongside the word “Remembrance”, highlighting the importance of creating a permanent national moment to recognise victims and survivors.
Her comments came as Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Labour MP Dan Jarvis also joined victims, survivors and families to mark the occasion.
Jarvis said he had been “deeply moved” by the courage of those whose stories he heard, adding that the country would “always stand firm against the evil of terrorism”.
For Leadbeater, whose family has experienced the devastating consequences of political violence first-hand, the day carried an especially poignant message about remembrance, solidarity and ensuring the voices of victims and survivors continue to be heard.
