Hate crime is defined as ‘any criminal offence which is perceived, by the victim or any other person, to be motivated by hostility or prejudice towards someone based on a personal characteristic.’ It can be an act committed against a person or property. Anyone can be the victim of a hate incident. For example, you may have been targeted because someone thought you were gay even though you’re not, or because you have a disabled child.
If you’re worried someone might see you have been on this page, find out how to stay safe online here.
What is hate crime?
Hate crimes are any crimes that are targeted at a person because of hostility or prejudice because of a person’s:
- disability
- race or ethnicity
- religion or belief
- sexual orientation
- transgender identity
These incidents may involve:
- physical attacks
- verbal abuse
- domestic abuse
- harassment
- online abuse
- damage to your property
- bullying or intimidation
- threats of violence
- graffiti
How can I get help?
- Report online to your local police force here
- Visit True Vision’s ‘organisations that can help page’ for information
- Local agencies such as the Citizens Advice Bureau, can also report the incident on your behalf and provide you with advice and support
- You can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if you want to remain anonymous
- In an emergency, call 999 or 112
- Find a service local to you by searching on the Victims Choice website