Hate Crime

This is crime which includes discrimination. Hate crime is where the person focuses on your:

• Age
• Gender or gender identity
• Disability
• Race or ethnicity
• Religion or beliefs
• Sexual orientation

Hate crime can happen at school, college, work or at home, in the street or online. Remember, hate crime is wrong and is never your fault.

What is discrimination?

• Discrimination is when someone treats you differently or unfairly because of who you are. Some examples of this might include being targeted because of your age, gender, gender identity, the things that you believe in, or the way that you look.
• Remember discrimination is against the law and everyone has the right to be treated fairly and respectfully.

What can you do?

• Speak to someone: Asking for support is nothing to be afraid or ashamed of – we all need someone to talk to every now and then. We’re here to talk if you want to speak to us about what’s happening.
• Keeping a record of messages, videos or a diary of what’s been happening can help when telling an adult or be used as evidence.
• Tell a trusted adult: If something or someone ever makes you feel upset, worried or scared. There are lots of people who will be able to help you like your teachers, parents, carers or contact Childline – 0800 11 11 or www.childline.org.uk

Reporting a crime

If you think you have been a victim of a crime and want to report a crime, you can tell a parent, carer or adult you trust. Victim First can also help you with this if you are unsure.

• If you feel you are in immediate danger, call 999.
•   If it is not an emergency but you still want to report something to the police, you can call 101 or report online via Report a crime | Leicestershire Police (leics.police.uk)

If you think you may be the victim of hate crime you can speak to us.