A free service providing practical and emotional support to victims of hate crime across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent has helped over 600 people in its first year.
The Uniting Staffordshire Against Hate service, commissioned by the Staffordshire Commissioner’s Office and delivered by the Citizens Advice Bureau, was launched in October 2021.
The service delivers a free, high-quality, personalised and tailored service, which helps victims cope and recover from the impact of the hate crime or incident and the harm they have experienced.
Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime, Ben Adams said: “Hate crime can take many forms, including physical attacks, damage to property, theft, offensive graffiti, threats, intimidation or bullying.
“The impact on victims can be devastating, leaving them feeling isolated and afraid, which is why this service is so important to help people get the specialist support they need after a hate crime or incident.”
Since 1 October 2021, Uniting Staffordshire Against Hate has:
- Received 883 referrals for support or mediation
- Provided support to 328 victims
- Provided advice, guidance, information and signposting to 289 victims
- Delivered hate crime awareness training to 29 professionals
- Delivered 25 community awareness sessions to over 200 people
- Delivered 48 campaigns across Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
The service is designed to be accessible through a range of channels, simple to navigate and prevent victims having to repeat their story on multiple occasions. It includes:
- A specialist practical and emotional support service
- Targeted awareness and education sessions in schools and the community
- Training and awareness sessions for professionals
- Communication campaigns to help raise awareness of hate crime and the support available to victims
Simon Harris, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice Staffordshire North & Stoke-on-Trent, which hosts the service, said: “The number of referrals we have received in the first year clearly shows the scale of the problem and the need for a specialist service to support victims.”
The service will operate across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent for an initial three years from 1 October 2021, receiving an investment of £170,000 per year. Community Safety Partnerships across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent are also contributing to the service through the Local Delivery Fund.
If you need support after a hate crime or hate incident, contact Uniting Staffordshire Against Hate, part of the Staffordshire Victim Gateway, on 0330 0881 339 or email help@staffsvictimsgateway.org.uk. In an emergency, always call 999.
