Hate crime awareness event to be held in Kidderminster

Between October 14, and October 21, officers from West Mercia Police will be joining forces with partners to raise awareness of hate crime, the impact it has on the lives of victims and what can be done to support victims.

In Kidderminster, there will be a pop-up stall in the town centre on Thursday (October 19) between 10am and 2pm.

Chief superintendent Charles Hill, hate crime lead for West Mercia Police said: “Tackling hate crime and bringing offenders to justice is a year round priority for us.

“During Hate Crime Awareness Week we put a special focus on going out and talking to our communities; increasing awareness of hate crime, letting people know how they can report hate crime and increasing confidence that the police will take action.

“Hate crimes have traditionally been underreported and we have done a huge amount of work in recent years to give victims the confidence to come forward and report their ordeal, something that has led to an increase in reporting.

“We welcome the fact that more people have the confidence to come forward but it is concerning because behind each of the reports is someone who has been victimised because of who they are and someone who thinks that this is acceptable.

“Our message is clear – it is never acceptable and victims don’t have to suffer in silence. Report it and we will take action.”

West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner, John Campion, added: “It is important to keep the focus on hate crime and I will ensure that support for victims remains a priority for West Mercia Police.

“The increase in reporting shows that public confidence in the police is increasing, and I am reassured they are working diligently to prevent and to tackle unacceptable behaviour and injustices in society.

“We all have a part to play in challenging negative beliefs and attitudes, and I believe that by working together we can create a happier, safer and more united communities in the West Mercia policing area.”