Police Question Time: Hate Crime and Community Cohesion

The latest edition of Police Question Time, hosted by the Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Clare Moody, focused on one of the most pressing issues facing communities today: hate crime and community cohesion.
Joined by Chief Constable Sarah Crew, Alex Raikes MBE DL from SARI (Stand Against Racism and Inequality), and Dan Green from Bridges for Communities, the panel explored how policing and partnership working can help tackle hate crime and build stronger, more inclusive communities.
Key Themes from the Discussion:
- Understanding Hate Crime: The panel discussed the impact of hate crime on individuals and communities, and the importance of recognising and reporting it.
- Community Engagement: Emphasis was placed on the role of community organisations in bridging divides and fostering understanding across cultures and backgrounds.
- Policing with Compassion: Chief Constable Sarah Crew highlighted the force’s commitment to trauma-informed policing and improving trust with marginalised communities.
- Education and Prevention: The conversation explored how early education and awareness can help prevent hate-motivated incidents and promote empathy and respect.
This PQT provided a platform for open dialogue, accountability, and shared learning. It reinforced the message that community cohesion is everyone’s responsibility, and that tackling hate crime requires a united, proactive approach.
Watch the full session here: Police Question Time: Hate Crime and Community Cohesion