United Voices of the World (UVW) is a member-led, grassroots trade union that supports vulnerable groups of workers such as migrants.
The union was founded in January 2014 by a group of cleaners from Latin America who worked with a few volunteers from street corners and cafes for the first three years.
In the early hours of Friday, January 10, UVW said its offices in Pelican House were broken into twice and believes the incidents to be related.
A spokesperson for UVW said: “Our union’s offices were broken into twice in the early hours of Friday 10 January, leaving us ransacked.
The offices were reportedly targeted twice in the same night at 1am and 5am (Image: United Voices of the World) “We believe this may have been a politically targeted break-in.”
The spokesperson said the union has CCTV footage which appears to show two individuals “using large crowbars” to break through three doors at around 1am.
They added that its base is in a block with dozens of other organisations, but it was the only one targeted.
They said the second break-in happened at 5am, carried out by three people.
“We’re asking for donations to help replace stolen equipment and ensure campaigns for dignity and equality continue.”
Donations can be made at www.uvwunion.org.uk/en/donate/.
A spokesperson said: “Officers attended the scene at Pelican House, where up to three suspects were alleged to have forced entry and stolen items from the United Voices of the World office on two separate occasions, whilst damaging the property to gain access.
“Items alleged to have been stolen include 10-15 laptops, five mobile phones and two portable speakers.
“No injuries were reported and no arrests have been made as of yet.
“Police are investigating CCTV and forensic evidence.
“Enquiries are ongoing.”
Contact police on 101 if you have any information.
