Reporting hate crime

Last Updated: 3 April 2024

Any incident that targets a person on the grounds of their race, ethnicity, religion, belief, disability, sexual orientation or transgender status should be reported to the police.

This could include physical abuse, verbal abuse, damage to property, threats, bullying, abusive gestures or other forms of abuse such as letters, leaflets, emails and texts.

It can also include people who are at risk of radicalisation by potentially terrorist organisations.

Even if you do not identify with the religion or belief etc for which you are being targeted you can still report this as a hate incident.

Report a hate crime incident

If you think you, or someone you know, has been the target of a hate crime or incident, please report it. You can report an incident whether you are the victim, a witness or a third party and can also remain anonymous.

To report a hate crime or incident to the police:

• complete the hate crime reporting form
• call 101 (or 999 in an emergency)
• textphone Cumbria Police 18001 101 for deaf, hearing or speech impaired
• tell a police officer

By reporting a hate crime or incident, you could be helping to prevent someone else from being targeted as the police and authorities can recognise areas of concern and take action to ensure the offenders are brought to justice.

Most importantly, you will have access to the support you may need following an incident.

Support for those affected by crime and anti-social behaviour

Report internet hate crime

Hateful opinions and materials can be spread quickly over the internet and if you see anything that is targeting someone because of their race, ethnicity, religion, belief, disability, sexual orientation or transgender status, you should report it.

Report an internet hate crime incident

At risk from radicalisation or potential terrorism

If you have a concern about someone who may be at risk of radicalisation or being involved with a potentially terrorist organisation, they can get help and support to change direction from Cumbria Constabulary Prevent.