Bonfire night precautions for Grenfell survivors

BONFIRE night could potentially reawaken symptoms of trauma in those mentally scarred by the Grenfell Tower fire, authorities have warned.

Kensington and Chelsea Council has written to all schools in the area alerting them of the emotional risk posed by the annual festivities.

It is feared the sight of the open fires and loud fireworks traditional for November 5 will distress children and families who experienced the deadly inferno.

The borough’s set-piece display, which is organised privately, was due to take place last night at the Roof Gardens, yards away from where many survivors of the blaze are staying in hotels.

Displaced families were prewarned about the showcase, which was due to start at 11.45pm, while extra support staff were deployed.

Roaming teams will also be sent out as it is feared unregulated bonfires pose the greatest risk of upset- ting witnesses to the June 14 tragedy which killed more than 80 people.

Emma Will, of Kensington and Chelsea Council, said: “Traumatic memories can be revived by many sensations – a sight, a smell, a noise. These can trigger a response that takes a person back to the most traumatic of times.

“We want to make sure that, if that happens, people have the support available. We are working with NHS, Hestia and our incredible schools and teachers to make sure that happens.”

Mental health workers from the NHS and nearby Hestia charity will be drafted in to provide support.