Researchers supporting Staffordshire town to become more resilient and inclusive

Keele University researchers are leading a new study with local government partners to promote resilience and inclusivity among both businesses and young people in Tamworth, in response to last year’s summer riots. 

Tamworth in Staffordshire was among one of many towns in the UK affected by unrest in the summer of 2024, and this new study led by Dr Tolu Olarewaju responds directly to the unrest and community tensions experienced during those incidents.  

Funded by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government through the Community Recovery Fund, the project aims to build security, resilience, and inclusion in Tamworth, working with both young people and SME business owners, particularly those from minority and migrant backgrounds. 

In partnership with Tamworth Borough Council and community leaders, the team aims to empower young people and small business owners to combat hate, strengthen community cohesion, and empower Tamworth’s diverse local economy. 

The research will have two main elements encompassing the team’s work with both young people and business owners. In the first, Keele researchers aim to empower young people through education and creativity, running workshops in local schools and colleges to educate them on issues like islamophobia, contesting online hate, and analysing social media to encourage critical thinking of content spread online. 

The second strand of the research will focus on businesses, with workshops designed to strengthen the local economy by examining issues such as fostering inclusion within Tamworth’s business community and developing resilience in the face of social and economic challenges. 

By bringing in expertise from across the academic and community sectors, including from members of the Staffordshire Black Business Network, the project seeks not only to help the community recover from the social impacts of last year’s unrest—but also to lay the foundations for a more inclusive and prosperous future in Tamworth.  

Dr Tolu Olarewaju, Lecturer in Management at Keele University and President of the Staffordshire Black Business Network, is leading the research and said: 

 “Value creation goes beyond profit—it’s about uplifting society. Guided by Keele University’s motto, ‘Thank God for All,’ and Staffordshire Black Business Network’s motto: ‘Together We Go Further,’ this project supports communities impacted by the July–August 2024 disorder, helping them become safe spaces for growth and opportunity.” 

Stephen Gabriel, Chief Executive for Tamworth Borough Council, said: “We’re very much looking forward to working in partnership with Keele University. The work, funded through government’s Community Recovery Fund, will encourage young people and local businesses to lead the conversation in tackling misinformation and hatred.  

“Last year we did see dreadful civil unrest, but we’ve also seen the strength of Tamworth’s community spirit as we all work together for a more cohesive Tamworth. This project will add to that community resilience as we work to challenge hate.  

“The project will also help inform the ongoing work of the council's community engagement strategy.”