People across Northamptonshire are being urged to report any incidents of hate.
This is Hate Crime Awareness week and agencies across the county have been sharing one simple message – tell us if you have been a victim because of someone else’s hate.
Assistant Chief Constable Rachel Swann, from Northamptonshire Police, said: “We know hate crimes and incidents take place every day of the year and that in many cases people do not report them, either to the police or other agencies, and we want this to change.
“Being targeted because of another person’s hate can have a huge impact on victims and we want to take as much positive action as we can, as well as make sure the appropriate support is available.
“If people are nervous about contacting us they can also report any incidents anonymously online via the True Vision website report-it.org.uk or contact their local council.”
ACC Swann added: “Events over the summer have undoubtedly raised concerns in some of our communities and although we haven’t seen an increase in hate crimes, we have seen an increase in incidents, and that is something I want to offer reassurance about.
“In no way is it right for someone to be threatened, abused, assaulted or targeted in any way because of someone else’s prejudice and we want people to be able to live their lives feeling secure and confident in their own safety.”
Victims of hate crime can be targeted because of their race, ethnicity, religion, sexuality, gender identity, disability or age but anyone who believes they have been targeted because of another person’s hatred can report an incident.
Victims of hate crime can contact the below organisations to report incidents;
• Police - 101 or 999 in an emergency
• True Vision - report-it.org.uk