Hate Crime and Discrimination
Hate incidents and hate crime are acts of violence or hostility directed at people because of who they are or who someone thinks they are (Citizens Advice, 2019). If you’ve experienced this, or witnessed it, it’s important to report it if you can.
Reporting Hate Crime
West Midlands Police
If you’ve witnessed or experienced hate crime, we strongly recommend that you report it to West Midlands Police if you feel able to do so. Their website provides more information on what a hate crime is and can take reports online.
If it’s an emergency, phone 999. Otherwise, if you want to make a report by phone, call 101. Alternatively, you can report hate crime to the police at any police station.
Stop Hate UK
If you don’t feel able to speak to the police but are still willing to make a report, Stop Hate UK are a national charity who provide independent and confidential reporting for victims, witnesses and third parties of hate crime.
Stop Hate run a variety of help lines:
- 24 Hour Help Line: 0800 138 1625
- Stop LGBT Hate Crime: 0808 801 0661
- Stop Learning Disability Hate Crime: 0808 802 1155
For support for young people, under 18, experiencing or witnessing a Hate Crime: Call 0808 801 0576 or Text 07717989025
Accessing Support
University Health and Wellbeing
University College Birmingham has a Health and Wellbeing team who are on-hand to help manage any difficulties or concerns you might have. They provide specific Mental Health and Wellbeing support, including counselling, that you can access.
Victim Support
Victim Support are an independent charity who provide free and confidential support to people who have been affected by crime. Visit their website here.
Samaritans
Samaritans are a free, confidential and non-judgemental listening service. If you need someone to talk to, you can call or e-mail them.
Telephone: 116 123
E-Mail: jo@samaritans.org