Hate crime or incident is any behaviour that you or someone else thinks was caused by hostility, prejudice or hatred of:

• Disability - including physical, hearing, visual impairments, mental health problems or learning disabilities
• Gender identity - people who are transgender, transsexual or transvestite
• Race - skin colour, nationality, ethnicity or heritage
• Religion, faith or belief - including people without a religious belief
• Sexual orientation - people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual or heterosexual

A hate incident is the same as a hate crime, however the only difference is that the behaviour exhibited falls short of being a crime. 

Often hate incidents, if left unchecked, can develop into hate crimes.

It is important that all hate crimes and incidents are reported. Reports help us support victims and witnesses, and make sure action is taken against perpetrators.

Stop Hate UK UK 24hour helpline 0800 138 1625

Text Relay 18001 0800 138 1625

Interpretation: If you want to talk in a language other than English, Stop Hate UK will call you back with an interpreter.

In an emergency call the police on 999 and tell them you are reporting a hate crime. Bedfordshire Police would prefer to hear any reports directly, however if you are nervous about speaking to the police you can report it to Stop Hate UK.

Stop Hate UK

• is a charity that provides independent and confidential support 
• can take the details of what has happened, and arrange ongoing support if you want it, OR you can remain anonymous 
• can listen, take a report and give you information, even if you do not tell them who you are 

Bedfordshire Police work with Stop Hate UK, who provide assistance to all members of our community in Bedfordshire.

Anyone can be a victim of Hate Crime - Hate Crimes are illegal. Help us put a stop to Hate Crime.