Hate crime

Hate crime causes great distress to its victims and the wider community. Examples of hate crime may include: verbal abuse, property damage, violence, threats, offensive messages or other harassment.

Suffolk Police takes this type of crime very seriously and is committed to tackling it to make our communities safer.

 

What is Hate Crime?

Hate crime is an offence committed against a person or property that is motivated by the offender’s prejudice or hatred of people because of their:

• Race
• Religion or belief
• Physical or sensory disability
• Learning disability or mental health
• Age
• Gender
• Sexual orientation
• Gender identity.

 

What does Suffolk Police do about Hate Crime?

It is the policy of Suffolk Police to record and investigate hate crime, and give high priority to the investigation of these incidents.

Full recognition is given to the fact that individual incidents, which may appear minor in nature to some, are far more serious when part of a pattern of behaviour directed at members of a minority group.

Suffolk Police uses a problem solving approach to seek long-term solutions using all the benefits of inter-agency and partnership working.

People who witness or are the victim of hate crime are encouraged to report the incident to the police as soon as possible.

 

Reporting Hate Crime

To report hate crime, please see ‘related sections’, where you can access our online reporting form.

If you prefer to speak to someone, please dial 101, where someone will be able to help you.

Always dial 999 when life is threatened or people are injured, or if there is a crime in progress or an immediate police response is necessary.

What is Suffolk Hate Crime Service?

The Suffolk Hate Crime Service employs support workers to support people and families who experience or witness hate incidents or hate crimes in Suffolk. It also aims to develop an awareness of diversity and the impact of hate crime on local communities within the county.

We are based at Old Crown Court Annex, Civic Drive, Ipswich, IP1 2AW but we support individuals across all of Suffolk.

 

How can I contact Suffolk Hate Crime Service?

You can telephone us on 01473 668 966 Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5.00pm, or leave a message on the answer phone outside of these hours.