A Suffolk civil rights charity is calling for the county’s candidates in this June’s General Election to use their campaigns to boost rather than fracture community cohesion.

Ipswich & Suffolk Council for Racial Equality (ISCRE) wants those who are chosen to be in the running from each party and their teams to avoid the divisive rhetoric which ruled Brexit.

It is part of the charity’s #SuffolkSolidarity appeal, which was started during the EU referendum.

Phanuel Mutumburi, ISCRE’s business and operations director, said: “Whether this is an election dominated by Brexit or a host of other issues, we are aware that passions are riding high.

“Whilst ISCRE welcomes strong political engagement, we are hopeful that the tone of the campaigns in Suffolk will be measured and avoid negative and divisive comments and actions.”

ISCRE is asking candidates to follow these principles:

• Avoid criticising, demonising or making negative comments about residents in Suffolk

• Avoid all negative comments and classifications of people based on age, gender, race, faith, sexuality and mental and/or physical disabilities

• Reflect the positive contributions made to Suffolk’s economy and civil society from its diverse communities

• Support ISCRE’s #SuffolkSolidarity campaign aimed at promoting tolerance and acceptance of all communities in the county

Ms Mutumburi added: “We hope that this #SuffolkSolidarity initiative and its practical advice will be of use to every candidate and party involved in the General Election.”