Hate crime

Have you been affected by hate crime?

Hate crime happens when someone targets you because of who you are, or who they believe you to be.

This might relate to your:

• Race or ethnicity
• Religion or beliefs
• Sexual orientation
• Disability
• Gender identity (including being transgender)
• Alternative subculture or lifestyle (for example the way you dress or express yourself)

Being targeted in this way can feel deeply personal. Hate crime is not only about the act itself – it can also affect your sense of safety, belonging and identity.

If something like this has happened to you, support is available.

What hate crime can look like.

Hate crime can take many forms. It may happen in person, online, or in public spaces.

Some common examples include:

Physical assault – When someone uses violence to harm you because of who you are.

Verbal abuse or harassment – This may include insults, threats, offensive language or repeated harassment directed at you because of your identity.

Incitement to hatred – When someone shares messages, images, videos or other content intended to encourage hatred or violence towards a person or group.

Hate incidents can also happen online. This might involve abusive messages, threats, or posts encouraging others to target people because of their identity.

If something feels like it was motivated by prejudice or hostility, it may be a hate crime or hate incident.

You don’t have to be certain for it to be taken seriously.

Get the help you need

If you would like information, advice or emotional support, call us on 0800 876 6155. We can listen to what has happened and help you understand what support options are available.

You can do this whether or not you choose to report the incident to the police.

You may also wish to seek support from specialist organisations:

Let’s End Hate Crime (Greater Manchester) – Provides information, advice and different ways to report hate crime, including through third-party reporting centres like libraries and community organisations.

Tell MAMA – Supports people across England who have experienced anti-Muslim hate and allows incidents to be reported.

Community Security Trust (CST) – Supports Jewish communities affected by antisemitism and related threats.
Phone: 0800 032 3263 (24-hour helpline)

Galop – Provides support for LGBTQ+ people who have experienced abuse or violence, including hate crime.
Phone: 0800 999 5428

Irish Community Care – Provides support and reporting options for Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities in Greater Manchester.
Phone: 0161 205 9105
Email: headoffice@irishcommunitycare.com

You may also wish to speak with someone you trust, like a friend, family member or community organisation.