Unfortunately, not everyone we come into contact with shares our views, values and beliefs. However, some people take this to the extreme and cause a lot of distress as a result. This kind of activity could be classed by the Constabulary as a hate incident or hate crime and we will not tolerate it.

A hate incident is defined as 'any incident, which may or may not constitute a criminal offence, perceived by the victim or any other person, as being motivated by prejudice or hate'.

A hate incident becomes a hate crime once an offence is committed.

These incidents and crimes may be based on a person's membership or perceived membership of a particular group which could include disability, lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender, race and religion or belief.

Anyone can be a victim of hate crime and unfortunately, if it isn't reported it can go on for some time.

We appreciate that reporting these types of incidents and crimes isn't easy which is why we have dedicated officers in place to help you. Click here to find out where your nearest officer is.

Click here to find out how to report an incident or crime or here for the hate crime self reporting form.