Hate crime is unacceptable – here’s how to report it

The Local Authority, along with Hampshire Constabulary, the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner and the Wessex Crown Prosecution Service are advising the public to report it, whenever and wherever it occurs, and that there are a number of ways to do so, anonymously if preferred.

Councillor Andrew Joy, Executive Member for Communities, Partnerships and External Affairs, said: “National Hate Crime Awareness Week shines a spotlight on an issue that can affect communities anywhere.  We are proud to be working with our partners to highlight a crime that can have a devastating impact on individuals as well as communities, but is often one that is under-reported whether it relates to disability, faith, gender identity, race or sexual orientation. It is important that we continue to work together to ensure that those people who have been affected know where and how they can access support and the different reporting options available, while progressing our joint work to promote greater understanding, respect and cohesion in our schools and across our communities.”

Police and Crime Commissioner, Michael Lane said: “A hate crime attacks a person’s core sense of identity and belonging within society. It is important that victims of hate crime and those witnessing can feel confident and supported in reporting these crimes, be it to the police or one of the 70 Third Party Reporting Centres across Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, Portsmouth and Southampton, no matter where they are. I am delighted that we now have so many reporting centres embedded within the communities, and easy access to independent support through a reporting app. It’s only through working in partnership with communities that we can make a real difference for the most vulnerable members of our society”.

Hate Crime Awareness Week is an opportunity for organisations, communities and individuals to join together to demonstrate their support for tackling Hate Crime.  The week of action aims to bring people together to stand in solidarity with those affected, to remember those that have been lost, and support those who need ongoing support.

Further information on what constitutes Hate Crime and how to report it is available on the County Council’s website.

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