Report hate crime

A hate crime is when someone commits a crime against you because of your disability, gender identity, race, sexual orientation, religion, sex or any other perceived difference.

Hate crimes can include:

• Cyberbullying
• Offensive letters or text messages (hate mail) or phone calls
• Offensive leaflets and posters
• Physical attacks such as assaults
• Sexual harassment
• Threats of an attack
• Vandalism, criminal damage, graffiti or arson
• Verbal abuse or abusive gestures

If you witness a hate crime

• Offer support for the victim. Whilst the incident is taking place and only if you feel safe to do so. Let the victim know they are not alone.
• Understand. Console the victim after the event, show you understand them, they are not alone and hate has no home in your community.
• Tell the police. If you witnessed a hate crime it is important to report the details, even if you do not feel comfortable to report it at the time. You can report an incident using our online report a crime or incident form. If the incident is not necessarily a criminal offence, it should still be reported to us.

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Support for victims of hate crime

Support is available for victims of hate crime.