Next week sees the launch of a service that builds on the work of the Racial Harassment Initiative. After 10 years of support for victims and families who suffer racist abuse, the Suffolk Hate Crime service will extend and reach out to those suffering abuse because of their race, religion or belief, disability, age, gender or sexual orientation. The county-wide service will provide support, advice and signposting for those subjected to hate incidents. The service is co-managed between Suffolk County Council and Suffolk Constabulary.

Suffolk County Councillor, Terry Clements, and Assistant Portfolio Holder for Sport, Culture, Diversity, Health and Wellbeing said: "Responding to the needs of those that suffer hate crime cannot be achieved solely by one agency. This is why agencies such as Optua, Ipswich & Suffolk Council for Racial Equality, Age Concern, Suffolk Inter Faith Resource and Suffolk Gay & Lesbian Helpline are truly working together to ensure that those that need support get it."

The organisers hope the service, to be launched at Ipswich Caribbean Centre on 3rd March 2010, 5.30-7.00pm, will help tackle hate crime at its roots and will encourage community confidence to grow, particularly amongst vulnerable people. Further awareness-raising events are planned over the coming months in other parts of the county. If someone is being victimised they or their family can call the team who will offer advice and practical support to the caller and where necessary will signpost them to officers who will support them through the criminal justice system.

The public can contact the team by telephoning them on 01473 668966. In an emergency phone 999.