Hartlepool Borough Council has launched a new initiative to support victims of hate crime, with seven trained volunteer Hate Crime Champions now based at locations across the town.
The volunteers, who carry out the role alongside their main jobs, aim to make reporting easier for residents and to raise awareness of hate crime in the community. The scheme launched during National Hate Crime Awareness Week, which runs until Saturday 17 October.
What counts as hate crime
Hate crime is committed against someone because of their race, religion, sexual orientation, disability or transgender identity. It takes many forms and is not limited to physical violence. Incidents can include threatening behaviour, verbal abuse, assault, robbery, damage to property including offensive graffiti, harassment, exploitation and inciting others to commit hate crimes.
Support available
The volunteer Hate Crime Champions are available at a range of Council premises across Hartlepool. They are trained to listen, help and support victims who come forward.
Councillor Amanda Napper, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council's Neighbourhoods and Regulatory Services Committee, said: "Nobody in Hartlepool should ever have to put up with abuse, intimidation or hostility simply because of who they are."
Hate crime can have a devastating impact on victims, but some people may be reluctant to report incidents or uncertain where to seek help. By placing trained staff at multiple locations, the Council aims to make it easier for residents to come forward.
How to report hate crime
Hate crime can be reported to Cleveland Police on 101, or 999 in an emergency. Reports can also be made online at www.cleveland.police.uk/ro/report/hate-crime/information/v1/hate-crime/how-to-report-hate-crime or via the Cleveland Online Policing App (COPA).
Help is also available to victims of hate crime through a network of third party reporting centres — premises in the community with specially-trained staff. More details can be found at www.hartlepool.gov.uk/downloads/download/69/hate-crime-third-party-reporting-centres