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Standing Together Against Hate

Posted on 12 Oct 2025, at 18:26 in Campaigns

Hate crime awareness week 11th - 18th October

This week is National Hate Crime Awareness Week, it’s an opportunity to raise awareness, show solidarity with those affected, and encourage everyone to take a stand against prejudice and discrimination in all its forms.

What Is a Hate Crime?

A hate crime is any criminal act motivated by hostility or prejudice towards someone because of who they are.
That could include their:

  • Race or ethnicity
  • Religion or belief
  • Disability
  • Sexual orientation
  • Transgender identity

Hate crimes can take many forms, from verbal abuse and online harassment to threats, damage to property or physical assault. Even if an incident isn’t a crime, it can still be recorded as a hate incident if it makes someone feel targeted or unsafe.

The Impact

Hate crime doesn’t just harm one person; it spreads fear, divides communities and undermines the sense of safety that everyone deserves.

For those directly affected, the impact can be lasting – affecting confidence, wellbeing and trust. That’s why it’s so important that victims and witnesses know they are not alone, and that help is available.

Getting Support

If you’ve experienced or witnessed a hate crime, there are people who can help.

  • In an emergency, always call 999
  • For non-emergencies, contact the police on 101 or report online through your local police website
  • If you want to stay anonymous, you can contact Crimestoppers
  • SARI (Stand Against Racism & Inequality) provides free and confidential support to anyone affected by hate crime across Avon and Somerset. They offer advice, advocacy and help with reporting. Visit saricharity.org.uk to learn more
  • You can also find information and advice through Stop Hate UK at stophateuk.org

How You Can Get Involved

  • Learn more about what hate crime is and how to report it
  • Share messages of support on social media using #NATIONALHCAW and #SpreadLoveNotHate
  • Speak up if you see or hear hate if you feel safe to do so
  • Support others by signposting them to help or standing alongside them when they report

Together for Safer Communities

By learning, supporting and standing together, we can build communities where everyone feels safe, respected and included – this week and every week.