Leading Hendon Through Crisis: A Lesson in Confidence, Leadership, and Influence
On August 2, 2024, Hendon, my ward in Sunderland, was thrust into the heart of a national crisis. What began as a protest in response to tragic events in Southport escalated into violent unrest, with rioters targeting local businesses, overturning vehicles, and setting fires. The situation was dire, and the community was shaken.
As the elected representative for Hendon, I felt a profound responsibility to address the turmoil and restore a sense of calm and unity. On August 14, 2024, during a full council meeting at Sunderland City Hall, I stood before my colleagues and the public to deliver a speech that I hoped would resonate with the values of our city.
The Speech That United a Community
In my address, I condemned the violence and the divisive rhetoric that had fueled it. I emphasized that the actions of a few did not represent the spirit of Sunderland or the people of Hendon. I called for peace, urging residents to come together, support one another, and reject hatred in all its forms.
The ELMS Method in Practice
In that moment, I saw the principles I teach in the ELMS Method come alive in practice:
E - Express: I had to own the room and speak with unshakeable confidence, even in the face of such a difficult situation. The community needed to see strength and conviction.
L - Listen: I listened as much as I spoke, acknowledged emotions in the room, and responded to the unspoken fears and concerns of our residents. Active listening builds trust.
M - Message: I guided the conversation toward unity, crafting a message that would inspire hope and action rather than despair. The right message at the right time can change everything.
S - Switch: I adapted my approach mid-speech, reading the room and adjusting my tone and emphasis to connect with different audiences—from council members to community leaders to worried residents.
The Community Response
The response from the community was heartening. Residents, businesses, and local organizations rallied together to clean up the aftermath, demonstrating the resilience and solidarity that define Sunderland. The council's Environmental Services team worked tirelessly, and the Sunderland BID team played a crucial role in restoring our city.
What moved me most was seeing people who had been divided by fear and anger come together in the days that followed. Neighbours helped neighbours. Local businesses supported each other. Young people joined cleanup efforts. The city showed its true character.
Leadership Lessons from Crisis
Reflecting on those events, I am reminded of the strength that lies in unity. The riots were a stark reminder of the challenges we face, but they also highlighted the unwavering spirit of our community.
Leadership is about more than words—it's about presence, courage, and the ability to guide people through uncertainty. It's about showing up when things are hardest and choosing to be a force for good.
Here are the key lessons I took from leading Hendon through this crisis:
- Speak early and speak clearly - In a crisis, silence can be more damaging than imperfect words
- Lead with empathy, not just authority - People need to feel heard before they can hear you
- Unite around shared values - Find common ground even when tensions are high
- Take visible action - Words must be backed by deeds
- Trust your community - Given the right leadership, people will rise to the occasion
From Crisis to Cohesion
The events of August 2024 tested Hendon and Sunderland. But they also proved that when we face adversity with courage, compassion, and unity, we emerge stronger.
As a councillor, performer, and coach, I've seen time and again that the principles of effective communication—confidence, listening, messaging, and adaptability—are not just performance skills. They are leadership essentials.
The ELMS Method isn't just for stages and boardrooms. It's for council chambers, community meetings, and moments of crisis when strong, authentic leadership matters most.
