Hate Crime

It's not okay to be targeted because of who you are, and you have the right to live your life free from abuse or violence. 

A hate crime is a criminal offence that needs to be reported to the police immediately, and you must let them know if you are concerned about your safety. If you are in immediate danger, or you need support straight away, call 999. If there is no immediate danger, you can report hate crime by calling 101. 

Once you have reported the incident(s) to the police, you can report it to us online or by calling us. You should include the incident report number and the officer’s name so that we can make contact with them and agree the next steps with you and the police. We can always help more when we know who you are and can agree action plans with you. We will always keep your information confidential.   

However, if you don’t want to give your name to us or the police then you can report crime anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

What is hate crime?

A hate crime incident is motivated by prejudice or hate. This could be based on a person's:

  • Race
  • Colour
  • Ethnic origin and nationality
  • Religion, faith and belief
  • Sexual orientation
  • Disability and learning difficulty
  • Gender identity
  • Physical appearance
  • or any combination of the above.

 A victim does not have to be a member of the group at which the hostility is directed, anyone can be a victim or hate crime.

Types of hate crime

There are many definitions of what constitutes a hate crime, but if someone makes you feel scared, embarrassed, ashamed or upset because of the way you look, your faith or religion, your ethnicity, gender, sexuality or disability, it could be a hate crime. 

Examples of hate crime can include: 

  • Physical assault, such as hitting, punching, pushing and spitting;
  • Verbal assault, such as threats, name calling and offensive jokes;
  • Verbal or written threats;
  • Abusive or threatening phone calls, texts and messages on social media;
  • Bullying;
  • Abusive gestures or actions;
  • Damage to your home, car, or other property you own;
  • Offensive graffiti or posters; 
  • Arson; 
  • Items such as eggs or stones thrown at your house; and 
  • Offensive or dangerous items posted through your letterbox. 

Why should I report hate crimes?

Hate crimes and incidents hurt; they can be confusing & frightening. By reporting hate crime, you may be able to stop this from happening again to you or someone else. You can report incidents to the police even if it wasn't directed at you. For example, you could be a friend, neighbour, family member or a passer-by. 

We are here for NPH residents who experience hate crime. We encourage you to report incidents to the police, and then to us. We will support you & keep your information confidential.

Once you have reported the incident(s) to the police, please contact us. You should include the incident report number and the officer’s name so that we can make contact with them and agree the next steps with you and the police. We can always help more when we know who you are and can agree action plans with you. We will always keep your information confidential.   

However, if you don’t want to give your name to us or the police then you can report crime anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Where else can I find support?

Report It - Provides easy access to reporting hate crime and online hate material. Also shares information and support for those who experience hate crime. 

Northamptonshire Rights and Equality Council - Advice on reporting hate incidents and hate crime

Victim Support - Support for anyone affected by crime. They can provide support even if the crime hasn't been reported to the police. 

Galop - Help and support for LGBT+ victims of hate crime

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