More hate crime champions to be recruited across Northumbria
6th March 2020
‘I want there to be hate crime champions everywhere’ – that’s the message from Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness, as Northumbria Police’s hate awareness training continues throughout Northumbria.
The initiative is a direct response to concerns of under-reporting and is designed to highlight that hate crime is totally unacceptable in our region and together we can put a stop to it.
The nationally acclaimed hate awareness packages explore the impact of hate on victims and the wider community, the barriers to reporting and the best ways to seek help.
At the end of the training session is an appeal for volunteers to take their commitment a step further and become hate crime champions. The role is designed to provide a visible presence, educating those around them within organisations or local communities.
As well as helping to fund the scheme, the Commissioner last week welcomed a training session to her office, where she promised that Northumbria Police will continue its pro-active approach to tackling hate.
Kim McGuinness said: “We all need to do everything we can to tackle hate. Wherever you were born, whoever you worship, whoever you love – we all belong In Northumbria. I am proud to be Police and Crime Commissioner of such a welcoming region but there are always people who spoil things, who incite hatred and that’s completely unacceptable.”
She added: “I want victims to feel listened to, and to know that there are people around them who have got their back, who will call out hateful behaviours and help people get the right support to overcome their experience. It’s especially important that we try and reach out to those who are perhaps uncomfortable contacting the police. Our champions are there to make getting help easier – it’s such an important role and I’m thankful to everyone who takes it on. I want there to be hate crime champions everywhere.”
Superintendent Karl Wilson, Northumbria Police’s lead for hate crime, said: “It is absolutely unacceptable to abuse someone because of who they are and we will continue to stand together to stop this sort of prejudice.
“I’m extremely proud of the work our officers and Community Engagement Team have done developing this package as well as the ongoing progress of the hate crime champions and their impact on victims and communities. Our champions are a vital part of the work we do to tackle hate crime, they offer guidance to those in need and ensure victims receive specialist support.
“I want to thank everyone involved for their continued effort and support – nobody should be targeted for who they are and we’re here to help.”
Kim McGuinness has part funded the awareness training along with funding from the Home Office. The package is endorsed by qualification provider NCFE.
If you have been a victim of hate crime and would like support to help you recover from your experience please contact Victims First Northumbria on 0800 011 3116.
Any individuals, groups or businesses interested in becoming a ‘Hate Crime Champion’ can contact 4986@northumbria.pnn.police.uk.
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