8 ways to tackle hate crimes

Earlier this week police chiefs came together to condemn the rise in hate crimes across Bristol and the west following the Brexit campaign.

A Bristol charity has now issued a guide to spotting, intervening and reporting a hate crime.

SARI (Stand Against Racism & Inequality) says it’s “important to deal with hate crime swiftly and firmly” and has issued the following guidelines. 

1. Recognize it.

Hate crimes or incidents are any crimes or incidents that are targeted at a person because of hostility or prejudice towards that person’s:

• disability

• race or ethnicity

• religion or belief

• sexual orientation

• transgender identity

This can be committed against a person or property. A victim does not have to be a member of the group at which the hostility is targeted. In fact, anyone could be a victim of a hate crime. If someone perceives a crime or incident to be hate motivated, then it should be accepted as such and reported, recorded and investigated.

2. Always take it seriously.

No matter how low level it may seem to be – the impact of hate motivated abuse at all levels can be extreme and long lasting. If lower level incidents aren’t dealt with or people get away with such offences the situation can escalate and get more serious and victims can give up on reporting. Action should be taken regardless of whether the offender is under the influence of drugs or alcohol; is a young person or child or an older person; has mental health issues or a disability. There is no excuse for hate related abuse! If the offender is vulnerable or has any mitigating factors – this can be taken into account when the case is investigated.

3. Stay safe

The action you take must not put you or others in more danger. So only speak out; take action and intervene if you will be safe. If you can’t take such actions for fear of further risk then record all that you can as per below and report the incident as soon as you safely can. Call the police as soon as you practically can too. Involve other supportive people or witnesses if this will help.

4. Say something

Usually, challenging firmly and politely can stop people from further offending. Try and ensure you have other people around you or with you when you do

5. Record anything you see

Record everything that will help with the investigation afterwards. This should include: the date; time; age, appearance, dress and distinguishing features of any offenders; car registration (if appropriate); place where it occurred; no. and driver details if it happens on a bus; details for any witnesses.

6. Film it

So long as it is safe to do so – on your mobile.

7. Report it

To the police and to SARI or to the relevant overseeing body e.g. employer; school; local authority so they can offer the right support to the victim(s) and investigate/ take up the case.

8. Be prepared to give evidence and go to court.

In an emergency – always call the Police on 999. Contact SARI: Freephone: 0800 171 2272. Tel: 01179420060 E-mail: sari@sariweb.org.uk.

Read more: Bristol’s Brexit hate crimes