Hate crime roadshow tours the city for awareness week

A roadshow is touring neighbourhoods across Birmingham this week to encourage people to report hate crime and to explain where victims can find help.

The city council's community cohesion team, working with the police and community organisations, is marking Hate Crime Awareness Week, which runs until Saturday 17 October, with a specially branded digivan visiting high streets, stations and shopping centres.

"Stop Hate Crime. Report It."

The campaign carries a simple message: "Stop Hate Crime. Report It." Research consistently shows hate crime is under-reported, with many people unsure what counts as a hate crime, how to report it or what support exists.

At each stop, residents can speak to council staff and partner organisations, learn how to recognise hate crime, and find out about reporting options and support services.

Where it is going

The van's stops during the week include:

• the city centre, near the Gay Village in Southside, in the evening
• St Paul's Square in the Jewellery Quarter
• Queen Alexandra College in Harborne
• Snow Hill station
• Tays Corner on the Bristol Road South, Northfield, and Longbridge Retail Park
• Erdington High Street and Kings Heath village square
• St Andrew's Retail Park in Bordesley
• High Street in the city centre

"Hate crime has no place in our city"

Councillor Jane Baston, cabinet member for equalities, communities and social justice, said: "Birmingham is proud to be one of the most diverse cities in Europe, and our diversity is one of our greatest strengths. Hate crime has no place in our city and no place in our communities."

"Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected, regardless of their race, religion, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity. Through Hate Crime Awareness Week, we want to help people understand what hate crime is, how to report it and where to access support."

"We know that many incidents go unreported. Every report helps build a clearer picture of what is happening in our communities, helps support victims and enables partners to take action."

What is a hate crime?

A hate crime is any criminal offence that the victim or anyone else believes was motivated by hostility or prejudice based on race, religion, disability, sexual orientation or transgender identity. It can include assault, criminal damage, harassment and abuse, online as well as in person.

How to report

Hate crime can be reported to the police on 101, or 999 in an emergency, or online through True Vision, the police-funded reporting site. People who prefer not to go to the police can use third-party reporting centres run by community organisations. Victim Support offers free and confidential help on 0808 168 9111.

The week was launched with an event outside the Council House, bringing together community safety partners and councillors.