Hate crime and harassment
Hate crime is when a person, or group of people, bullies or hurts someone because they don't like who they are. This can include a crime or harassment, which is perceived to be motivated by malice, or ill will, towards a social group, by the victim or any other person.
The attacker could be of any age or anyone: a stranger, a parent, a carer, a friend or a neighbour.
What are the main hate crime factors?
- Age - any incident which is perceived by the victim, or any other person, to be motivated on the grounds of their age
- Disability - when someone is being abused or harassed because they are disabled; this includes learning disabilities
- Gender - defined as being a crime which has been motivated only by the victim's gender, or perceived gender
- Racial and Religious - Southampton City Council has formally adopted the definition agreed in the report into the murder of Stephen Lawrence: "A racist incident is any incident which is perceived to be racist by the victim or any other person." The term 'race' includes race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin and language. The term 'religion' includes creed, faith and any similar belief system
- Homophobic and Transphobic - Southampton City Council has adopted the following definition: “Homophobia and transphobia is fear or hatred for anyone who is, or appears to be, lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender. A homophobic or transphobic incident is any incident that is perceived to be homophobic or transphobic by the victim or any other person"
How to report a hate crime
- In an emergency dial 999
- In a non-emergency call 101 or report it to Hampshire Police online
- To make an anonymous report online visit report-it or phone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
- Report to the Soutahmpton and Hampshire Hate Crime Network using the 'Love don't hate' reporting app. To download the app, visit Google Play or the Apple App Store and search for 'Southampton Love Don't Hate'
It is important to remember, do not report online if the attacker is still present, you or anyone else is seriously hurt or in danger, or you think the attacker may return. In this case call 999.
Further support
Get more information on the Hate Crime Reporting Network and Local Third Party Reporting Centre.
If you are a council tenant or leaseholder, talk to local housing staff who can also make reports on your behalf, take tenancy action where appropriate and provide help and advice. Contact your Local Housing Office.
The Safe Places network offers safety for any adult or young person who feels vulnerable while out and about in public. Read more about the Southampton Safe Places Network.
