Citizens Advice is working to raise awareness of Hate Crime

Citizens Advice is working to raise awareness of Hate Crime and we, at Citizens Advice Portsmouth, are a Third Party Reporting Centre.

Through our information and advice service, we support and empower people and communities affected by Hate Crime. Our aim is to help people identify and understand acts of hate, help to prevent hate crime, and ensure people know what steps they can take if they are affected.

What is a Hate Crime?

A Hate Crime is an act of violence or hostility because of who you are, or because of who someone else thinks you are.

It is an act that is focussed on a person's disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, or transgender identity.

A Hate Crime can include verbal abuse, intimidation, threats, bullying, harassment, assault damage to belongings or to property.

What is a Hate Incident?

A Hate Incident is a behaviour which is not a crime, but which is perceived to be motivated by hostility or prejudice and can take many forms.

The law considers both hate crimes and hate incidents to be particularly serious.

Citizens Advice are committed to supporting everyone and encouraging communities to stand together against all forms of hate crime.

If you feel you have been the victim of, or you have witnessed hatred, focussed on disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, or transgender identity, we are here to help. Or check out www.hampshire-pcc.gov.uk/get-involved/taking-action/hatecrime.