Hate Crime

Hate Crime is any incident, which may constitute a criminal offence, which is perceived by the victim or any other person as being motivated by prejudice or hate because of a person’s:

Race, colour, ethnic origin, nationality or national origins, including gypsies and travellers
Religion or faith, including no faith
Gender or gender identity, including transphobia - resentment or fear of transgender people or transvestites
Sexual orientation, including homophobia - resentment or fear of gay, lesbian or bi-sexual people. Also resentment or hatred of heterosexual people.
Disability – any physical, sensory or mental impairment whether short or long-term. Includes learning disability or difficulty

Hate crime can take many forms including:

Physical attacks – such as physical assault, damage to property, offensive graffiti, neighbour disputes and arson.
Threat of attack – including offensive letters, abusive or obscene telephone calls and other intimidating behaviour as groups or individuals.
Verbal abuse or insults, abusive gestures.
Other abuse – offensive leaflets and posters, dumping of rubbish outside homes or through letterboxes, unfounded and malicious complaints and bullying at home, on-line, in school or in the workplace.

Positive action

Hate crime is inexcusable. We do not tolerate it and will take positive action if a crime is identified. However many incidents go unreported out of fear or embarrassment.

It’s important to report hate crime because it gives us a chance to protect you and other people, but the first step is recognising it’s happening to you and you’re not to blame.

Not knowing what will happen when you report hate crime can be terrifying so on the next few pages you’ll find information about our specially trained officers and what they can do to help. You’ll also find a list of organisations that can offer support and guidance.

For more information, download our leaflet Cut Out Hate Crime. or Easyread leaflet Stop Hate Crime.

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