Hate Crime is the term used to describe a crime that is motivated by an aspect of someone’s identity.
People may be targeted because of one or several of the following:
- disability;
- nationality;
- race;
- religion;
- sexual orientation; or
- transgender identity.
Victims of hate crime may be subjected to intimidation, harassment, damage to property or violence.
What do to if you experience hate crime
It is important that the authorities are aware of hate crimes so they can take action. There are a number of options for reporting:
- Contact the police on 999 (if an emergency), or 101 (if a non-emergency)
- On www.report-it.org.uk – if you don’t want to speak with police
- Via a Third Party Reporting Centre – we can help with this
How can the Victim Care Service help?
The Victim Care Service acts as a Third Party Reporting Centre for Hate Crime in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. This means we can help victims to report Hate Crime even if they do not want to speak with the police or take any further action against the perpetrator.
We can help you report anonymously. This is helpful as it allows the police and other organisations to have a fuller picture of Hate Crime in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight without the need for victims to make an official complaint. This can help them to make decisions about how best to address problems in particular areas.
If you need some practical advice on how to move forward after experiencing hate crime or simply want to talk to someone independent about what happened, our team is here for you.
Our service is completely free and confidential, and we’ll listen to everything you have to say. We’ll help you navigate the Criminal Justice System if required, and provide all the practical and emotional support you need.