Hate crime

What is hate crime?

In England and Wales, hate crime laws recognise five protected characteristics, including:

• race
• religion
• disability
• sexual orientation
• transgender identity

Hate crimes can include verbal abuse, intimidation, threats, harassment, assault, and damage to property. These actions become hate crimes when they are committed against someone because of their actual or perceived protected characteristic.

A victim of hate crime does not necessarily have to possess the protected characteristics. The crime can be based on the perpetrator's perception.

Reporting hate crime

Hate crime in any form is wrong and should always be reported.

We understand that you may feel nervous about making a report, but we can help. By working with other agencies and local communities we aim to eliminate hate crimes and encourage residents to report them.

You can report an incident to West Midlands Police online or by calling 101.

Report a hate crime

In an emergency, always call 999.

You can also find further information and report a hate crime without having to interact with the police on True Vision. 

Hate Crime Reporting Centres

We've set up independent reporting centres for anyone to come forward and report incidents of hate crime. The centres help victims and witnesses of crime to talk to someone in a safe place.

What you say in the centres is strictly confidential and you can report an incident without speaking to the police. Trained members of staff are on hand to offer advice and can refer you to support services if you need any extra help.