No place for hate is the message behind two informative videos released by Leicestershire County Council.
The first video explains the difference between a hate crime and hate incident, while the second focuses on victims experience of reporting the crime – highlighting why reporting does make a difference.
The authority and its district partners across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, as well as the police, will be raising awareness about how and where victims and witnesses can report hate incidents and crimes, as part of this year’s National Hate Crime Awareness Week (14-21 October).
There is no place for hate in a vibrant, diverse county like Leicestershire. However, for victims that experience and suffer these types of incidents we want the people of Leicestershire to understand help is available.
“Sadly, hate incidents often go unreported but our new videos outline the importance and benefits of reporting. They make it clear how and where reports can be made and what action and help is available including support from specialist services such as Victim First.
Person:Councillor Ivan Ould, cabinet member for safer communities
As well as releasing videos the county council is also hosting a number of events throughout October, and Councillor Ould said he wanted others to get involved.
He said: “While there are a number of activities being run by partners and corresponding campaigns across the month, we are also encouraging communities to hold their own events.
“If we stand together and say no to hate, together we can make a difference.”
Events include a food fuddle, where food from different cultures can be shared and tried by people, enabling them to meet their neighbours, understand their beliefs and share stories.
Darren Goddard, hate crime officer for Leicestershire Police, said: “Hate incidents and hate crimes don’t just impact on the victim but the whole community. The theme of National Hate Crime Awareness Week is Standing Together and there is no stronger message than when our communities stand together side by side against hate, which sends a clear message that it has no place in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.”
People can report hate incidents and crimes to the police by phoning 101 or in an emergency call 999. Alternatively, people can report online via the Stamp It Out website.