What is a hate crime?
A hate crime is a criminal offence which is perceived as being motivated by hostility or prejudice based on:
- A person’s race or perceived race.
- A person’s religion or perceived religion.
- A person’s sexual orientation or perceived sexual orientation.
- A person’s disability or perceived disability.
- A person who is transgender or perceived to be transgender.
What to do if you are the victim of, or witness, a hate crime?
If you experience, witness or have been involved in a hate crime you can report it through West Yorkshire Police. Reporting makes a difference – to you, your friends, and your life. If you see a crime that is in progress or if someone is in immediate danger, please call 999 without hesitation.
We strongly encourage you to report any criminal activity to the police. If you prefer to remain anonymous, you can make a report through the Crimestoppers website.
Stop Hate UK supports individuals and communities who have been impacted by hate crime. Any incidents of hate crime can also be reported through their website: Report all Hate Crime – Stop Hate UK.
Support is also available from Tell Mama, a confidential support service for those suffering from anti-Muslim hate and discrimination across the UK. Their website has a number of different ways to report anti-Muslim incidents, including via phone or WhatsApp. The site also hosts useful resources.
You may also want to contact the 24 Hour Crime reporting service Stop Hate UK if someone needs support with reporting and/or support after the hate crime.
Connect takes a zero-tolerance approach to any form of Hate incident.
We will take action against perpetrators where we can, and we will always provide support if you have experienced it or witnessed it.
Types of hate crime
Hate crime can fall into one of three main types: physical assault, verbal abuse and incitement to hatred.
Physical assault
Physical assault of any kind is an offence. If you’ve been a victim of physical assault you should report it. D
Verbal abuse
Victims of verbal abuse are often unclear whether an offence has been committed or believe there is little they can do. However, there are laws in place to protect you from verbal abuse.
Incitement to hatred
The offence of ‘incitement to hatred’ occurs when someone acts in a way that’s threatening and intended to stir up hatred. That could be in words, pictures, videos, music, and includes information posted on websites.