Vera Baird comments in relation to the Home Office hate crime stats
13th October 2016
Vera Baird QC, Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner and Chair of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, said: “It’s really important that all victims have the confidence to report hate crimes, and when they do so it should be reassuring to know we are ranked one of the best forces in the country for hate crime victim satisfaction. It’s pleasing to see more and more people are coming forward to report what is wholly unacceptable behaviour. Hate related incidents will not be tolerated in Northumbria and our officers will take these reports very seriously. My message to anyone suffering any form of prejudice or discrimination is to speak up. Nobody should suffer alone – help is at hand.”
ACC Darren Best, said: “We have seen a 42% increase in the reporting of hate crime and we absolutely welcome this increase as it demonstrates victim confidence. This is a significant improvement to not only how we record hate crime but a message to all as to how very seriously we take these reports. We have worked hard training officers and work very closely with people within targeted communities and listen to their concerns. This also helps us build a picture of hate crime in our area and how we can work together with these communities to support them and encourage reporting.
“We absolutely support National Hate Crime Awareness Week and are taking part in many activities this week with our partners and the community to help raise awareness in what is a very serious issue. We will continue to do all we can to stop any form of hate in Northumbria – it’s not welcome here.”
Anyone who feels them may have been a victim of crime is asked to contact police on 101.For more information about National Hate Crime Awareness Week follow @northumbriaPol #StopHate #Weallstandtogether #NHCAW
Connect with us on:
