This week has been one of the toughest our community has faced.

The fire at De Pass Gardens last Sunday evening was devastating for the residents affected, and for the wider community.

I'd like to express my gratitude to the emergency services who were on the scene immediately and ensured everyone was out safely, resulting in no casualties or fatalities. Without their swift response the outcome could have been very different.

Many of the families affected lost everything - their homes, belongings, and treasured family mementos that cannot be replaced. Above all, they also lost their sense of safety in their own homes, something most of us take for granted. They feel hurt, scared and angry, and we need to be there to help them through this difficult time.

I've been on site during the week and spoken to lots of residents. Some have young children to look after, others have lost crucial documents in the fire and without our support, would have no money. Perhaps most upsetting of all, some residents are without contents insurance. If you can, please show your support by donating at crowdfunder.co.uk/help-for-families-affected-by-riverside-fire/backers#start

I'd also like to thank my own council staff, who have been working around the clock to ensure that all those affected have access to emergency accommodation and specialised support in the coming weeks.

The community has responded with overwhelming generosity and we have been inundated with volunteers who have helped by providing all sorts of essentials like clothing, hot meals, childcare, or a shoulder to cry on.

My focus has been, and always will be, on the residents. In the coming weeks there will be many questions and I await the investigation by the London Fire Brigade Investigation. For now, my priority remains the families affected, and ensuring they have our full support to rebuild their lives.