Shropshire police campaign launched against hate crime

Events are taking place across the county are part of Hate Crime Awareness Week 2016 and started yesterday in Whitchurch.

Throughout this week, people and businesses will be asked to sign a pledge and take a stand against hate crime.

Chief Inspector Sarah Chaloner said: "This week we're not just targeting people who have been or are more likely to be victims of hate crime. Hate crime is everyone's problem. It has a huge impact on society as whole and this is why it is important that everyone plays their part."

It comes after figures released following a Freedom of Information request show West Mercia Police received 48 reports in just eight weeks after the country voted to leave the European Union in June.

The data showed a rise of more than 60 per cent in racially aggravated crimes, with police branding it unacceptable. In a bid To tackle the problem, pledge boards are being taken out to a number of events planned throughout the West Mercia policing area to mark Hate Crime Awareness Week 2016.

Those who signed the board made the pledge not to tolerate hate crime, to report it if seen and to speak to any known victims about reporting it. Businesses that sign up to the pledge receive a 'No Hate Here' sticker to place in their window.

Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Tracey Onslow said "We're all very clear that hate crime will not be tolerated. Knowing the scale of the problem is the first step. It is a clear part of PCC John Campion's plan to encourage hate crime reporting and ensure victims get the support they need to cope and recover.

"By challenging negative beliefs and attitudes we are working towards a safer West Mercia policing area."

Anyone can also sign the pledge by attending one of the events next week or by sharing or liking it the pledge on the West Mercia Police Facebook page or by tweeting using the #EndHateCrime hashtag. On Saturday, events will be held in Tenbury Wells outside the Spar and Bowketts, and in Whitchurch town centre on Monday from 11am to 2pm.

Today,On Tuesday, from 10.15am, an event was being held at the Watling Centre in Arleston.

Hate crime is a criminal offence which is perceived by the victim or any other person to be motivated by a hostility or prejudice based on a person's race, religion, sexual orientation, disability, transgender, or individual characteristic that makes someone appear different.

To report a hate crime in an emergency call 999, or for non-emergencies call 101.

Alternatively, report online to True Vision at www.report-it.org.uk, call into a police station, or tell a friend, family member, support worker, social worker or teacher.