Understanding Hate Crimes
Any crime or incident which you believe is happening because of race, ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity, sexual orientation or disability is a hate crime.
You could also be a victim of hate crime if you believe you are being targeted because the offender perceives you to be different in some way.
It could be a crime or incident such as:
• Physical abuse
• Intimidation
• Vandalism
• Verbal abuse/ name calling
• Graffiti
• Harassment
• Cyber-bullying
Any experience of hate crime may leave you feeling angry, alone, stressed, depressed or frightened. You don’t have to deal with this on your own, there are lots of services to support you whenever you need help.
It doesn’t matter if you aren’t sure whether an incident amounts to a crime or if you haven’t reported it to the police. Lancashire Victim Services are available to talk, to listen, for advice, for help.
If you have witnessed or been a victim of hate crime you must report it. This can be done in a number of ways:
• In an emergency always ring 999
• For non-emergencies ring 101
• Report anonymously online via True Vision
• Report online with Lancashire Constabulary
