John Swinney joins Prime Minister in honouring victims of terrorism at London event

THE First Minister has reiterated his support for people impacted by terrorist attacks – marking the inaugural Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism in London. He appeared at the event on Friday alongside UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham. The day aims to raise further awareness of the huge impact terrorism has on victims, survivors and bereaved families. It has been set up to remember and recognise those impacted by terrorism, while also "encouraging victims and survivors to access specialist support, educating the public, and amplifying victims’ and survivors’ stories. " READ MORE: ‘Frustration’ over Scottish bonds plan with no provision for independence As this year marks the first time the day has been observed, a special ceremony was held in central London. Speaking after the event, Swinney said: "Scotland stands with all those affected by terrorism. "This national day is extremely important, to honour victims and survivors and to remember those whose lives have been changed forever by these appalling acts. "The Scottish Government will continue to support victims, amplify their voices and work with partners across the UK to help protect communities from the threat of terrorism. "Our objective is to keep communities safe and put victims at the heart of Scotland's justice system so they receive the support they need.” The UK Government said the event brought together "victims, survivors, bereaved families, first responders and government representatives for a moment of remembrance, hope, and unity." It was livestreamed and is available to watch on YouTube through the Home Office's account. Andy Burnham also pledged to consult the victims and survivors of terrorism about creating a permanent national memorial. Speaking at the event, he said: “Your voices must be at the heart of every decision about how we remember and recognise those affected by terrorism. “With your help, we will change the way this country recognises and supports you, but most importantly, from here, obviously, those in some ways coming after you because that’s what this country should do.” He thanked everyone who had campaigned for a dedicated day for terrorism survivors. “This day does matter, as all the speakers have said. It is our way of saying that we see you, we hear you, we stand with you, and the whole country does too. “I want to thank everyone who campaigned for this day to make it happen. READ MORE: Glenfinnan needs a masterplan to tackle overtourism. Here's what it could look like “And the victims and survivors of more than 20 atrocities, we think of those victims today, the loved ones that you lost, but we thank those who have stood strong in all those years since, and we thank everyone who’s made the organisation of today possible. “It matters for another, more difficult reason, and it’s one that I can talk about perhaps in a way that the other speakers couldn’t today. “It helps bring forward change, change that the country needs, change in the way that we support people after these devastating and traumatic events. “I know from the many hours I’ve spent with survivors in Manchester that too often people have not had the support that they deserved, and they’ve had to fight for it in the aftermath.” Share