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Manchester Synagogue Attack

The Heaton Park Synagogue attack that took place on 2 October 2025 in Greater Manchester has been declared a major incident for the purposes of the Independent Public Advocate.

Cindy Butts is the leading advocate appointed to support victims.

The IPA can support you if: 

  • You were physically present and experienced harm  
  • You are a close family member/friend of someone who was present and either died or suffered serious, lasting harm 

The IPA can:

  • Direct you to support services
  • Help you understand and take part in the processes that follow an incident
  • Amplify your voice to public authorities

The IPA cannot provide legal advice, financial support or health care. Victims under the age of 18 can only be supported through an adult representative.

There is no time limit on when you can request support.

Request support from the Independent Public Advocate (IPA)

Information on the attack

The latest information is that this is an isolated incident with no wider threat to the public. The investigation into the attack is being led by Counter Terrorism Policing North West (CTPNW), supported by resources from across the national Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) network and Greater Manchester Police (GMP).

The coroner’s inquest into the victims’ deaths was opened on 29 October 2025 and adjourned. Please contact us if you would like more information about the coronial process or support throughout this period.

Immediate Support

If you or someone you know is in danger,  please call 999. If it is not an emergency but you need help from the police,  please call 101.

Anyone who has been affected can get help by calling a free 24/7 support line on 0808 168 9111 or online at victimsupport.org.uk.

This is a nationally-operated service.

You can also access a local victim service in Greater Manchester provided by the charity Catch 22. 

Further support guidance, including guidance on supporting a loved one who has been a victim of terrorism, can be found on the government website here.

Specialist Psychological Support

Specialist psychological support is available through the Critical Incident and Trauma Service (part of the Greater Manchester Resilience Hub). This support is for victims, witnesses, their families, members of the public, and professionals involved in the response.

They accept referrals online and by phone.  

Dealing with attention from the media 

After a major incident, the media may be interested in speaking to you. Sometimes, communicating with the media in a controlled way can be a positive experience.  

But you do not have to talk to the press if you don’t want to. Many UK newspapers are members of the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO), which means they must not engage in intimidation, harassment or persistent pursuit.  

You can contact IPSO on 0300 123 22 20.