Liverpool stands together against hate crime 

Liverpool stands together against hate crime 

Liverpool City Council is collaborating with various partners across the city to increase awareness about hate crime, promote its reporting, and provide support to those affected. The council emphasizes that everyone in Liverpool should feel safe, respected, and welcomed in their community.

Hate crime can cause individuals to feel fearful, isolated, and unwelcome in places where they live. Its impact extends beyond individuals to families and entire neighborhoods, making it clear that such acts have no place in the city. During National Hate Crime Awareness Week, running from 10 to 17 October 2026, Liverpool is focusing efforts on educating the public about hate crime, detailing how to report incidents, and outlining the support services available to victims.

Defined as criminal offences driven by hostility or prejudice against protected characteristics such as race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity, hate crimes encompass physical assaults, threats, verbal abuse, offensive graffiti, and property damage. These offences can occur both in person and online. Some behaviours, while potentially not meeting the legal threshold of hate crime, still cause significant harm and distress. Witnesses or victims of any prejudiced behaviour are encouraged to report it and seek guidance, as recognizing and challenging hate-related conduct is vital for fostering safer communities.

Liverpool is united with local authorities across the Liverpool City Region, Merseyside Police, the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office, and other organizations under three key pledges: to raise awareness and confront hate-based behaviour to promote equality, diversity, and inclusion; to bolster public confidence in reporting hate crimes; and to ensure victims receive consistent and effective support through collaborative agency efforts. Addressing hate crime is a shared responsibility involving public services, community groups, partners, and residents alike. Through the Citysafe Hate Crime Strategic Group, the council engages partners to spread awareness, simplify reporting processes, and strengthen victim support. Activities during the awareness week enable residents to understand hate crime, learn reporting channels, and access necessary help. Ongoing community engagement plays a crucial role by exchanging information, listening to local concerns, and connecting people to support services, ultimately encouraging more individuals to come forward.

If someone experiences or witnesses hate crime, they are urged to report it promptly and assured that support is available. Emergency incidents should be reported to Merseyside Police by calling 999, while non-emergency reports can be made via 101 or through the police’s online reporting system. Confidential reporting and support can also be accessed through organizations such as Stop Hate UK, which offers phone, text, email, and online reporting options. The Anthony Walker Foundation provides assistance particularly focused on racial or religious hate crimes. Those affected by disability hate crimes can seek help from Daisy Inclusive UK, and Citizens Advice Liverpool supports victims of LGBTQ+ hate crimes.

Efforts to combat hate crime extend well beyond Awareness Week. By continuously challenging prejudice, supporting one another, and making reporting and assistance more accessible, Liverpool aims to nurture a community where hate is not tolerated and everyone belongs. Together, the city commits to being a place where safety, respect, and inclusion are fundamental values for all

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