In this section you will find information and advice about understanding what Hate Crime is and how to report it.
What is Hate Crime?
Hate crimes are any crimes that are targeted at a person or property because of hostility or prejudice towards that person’s:
- disability
- race or ethnicity
- religion or belief
- sexual orientation
- transgender identity
Why should I report hate crime?
By reporting them when they happen, you may be able to prevent these incidents from happening to someone else. You will also help the police understand the extent of hate crime in your local area so they can better respond to it.
How do I report a hate crime?
There are several ways you can report a hate crime, whether you have been a victim, a witness, or you are reporting on behalf of someone else:
1. In an emergency
- call 999 or 112.
- If you cannot make voice calls, you can now contact the 999 emergency services by SMS text from your mobile phone. However, you will only be able to use this service if you have registered with emergencySMS first. See the emergencySMS website for details.
2. Contact the police
- You do not have to give your personal details, but please be aware the investigation and ability to prosecute the offender(s) is severely limited if the police cannot contact you. Contact your local police force, either by telephone or by visiting your local police station, details can be found on Northumbria Police website.
3. Report online
- You can report online using the facility on this website. Go to the 'Reporting online' page.
4. Self-reporting form
- You can download the self reporting form and send this to your local police force. The forms, including an Easy Read version, can be found on the 'Report a hate crime' page.
5. Third party reporting centres
- Local agencies such as the Citizens Advice Bureau, Community Voluntary Services etc can also report the incident on your behalf and provide you with advice and support. The 'Organisations that can help' page has a list of those organisations that may be able to help you.
- Stop Hate UK provide confidential and independent Hate Crime reporting services in various areas in the UK including a 24 hour helpline.
6. Crimestoppers
- If you do not want to talk to the police or fill in the reporting forms, you can still report a hate crime by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or via their website at www.crimestoppers-uk.org (opens in new window). You do not have to give your name and what you say is confidential. It is free to call.
- You can give us as little or as much personal information as you wish. But please note:
- With your details... the incident can be investigated fully and you can get the service you deserve and the support you need.
- Without your details... the report will be used for monitoring purposes to get a true vision of what is happening.