Commissioner supports refugee-led organisations to tackle hate crime
18th October 2017
In recognition of National Hate Crime Awareness Week, Dame Vera Baird QC has given her backing to a new refugee-focused campaign to support hate crime victims.
A new video made by the Regional Refugee Forum North East maps the actions an organisation can take if a member of their community becomes a victim of hate. It takes into account the distinct reasons which deter many asylum seekers and refugees from involving the police. Through interviews with Dame Vera herself as well as Victims First Northumbria, Northumbria Police and Newcastle City Council Community Safety Team, the film explores routes to securing emotional and practical support to help someone recover from the impact of hate. The film highlights the value anonymous reporting can have for promoting safety for the whole community.
“It’s fundamental that all victims – whoever they are – have the confidence to report hate crimes. Northumbria is ranked one of the best forces in the country for hate crime victim satisfaction, and I’m pleased to see more and more people are coming forward to report this type of offence. There’s no place in Northumbria for targeting someone for who or what they are – officers will take action against anyone perpetuating this unacceptable type of behaviour.
“Northumbria continues to put in place measures to improve the recognition, reporting and prevention of hate crime. Meanwhile we are continuing to work with partners to engage with communities, listen to their concerns and build a picture of hate crime across the force area.
“My message to anyone suffering any form of prejudice or discrimination is to speak up. Nobody should suffer alone – help is at hand.”
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