It's not only what Starmer says but also what the govt does that validates Reform. Yvette Cooper talked about using 'industrial sites' as accommodation for refugees instead of hotels. 🇩🇪 did something similar as emergency measure. To consider this as regular accommodation for ...
potentially traumatized ppl suggests that they're not seen as human beings. Just the kind of approach Reform might use. On the other side, if there are problems with hotels in communities, employing social workers might help. This could help promote integration and reduce fears amongst the locals.
It’s a pile on by the right wing media intended to stir up division. No amount of social workers can counter that constant toxic message. It’s noteworthy that there were no demonstrations when the Tories were in government despite them commissioning these hotels.
Labour would do well to start referring to the hotels as "Jenrick Hotels". That'd press home the point in one short simple sentence.
Social workers certainly wouldn't help with the public messaging. If there are any problems between locals and refugees, though, they could help and make sure the locals don't feel let down by the govt. That would drain support for rioters.