Hate crime: what do victims tell us?
Summary
This research project was commissioned by HMICFRS to better understand the experiences of victims of hate crime. It provides a powerful victim perspective and complements our own hate crime inspection report.
Case study
“It’s destroyed my life, really. I don’t even go out. […] Before, everyone will tell you […] ‘he constantly used to be out’. […] I just don’t feel comfortable going out no more.”
The research identifies some important areas of policing that victims tell us need to be improved.
Recognition
Victims would like police officers and staff to be better at recognising hate crime.
This will mean police record these crimes properly, and victims get the right response.
Better training
Victims would like better-trained officers to deal with them.
Most victims also said how important it was that officers showed an understanding of their personal circumstances. A lack of awareness and training can have a negative effect on the ability of the police to work with victims.
Clearer information
Victims would like clear information about support services in a format they can understand.
Victims report that the physical and mental effects of hate crime last for a long time after the incidents. Help and support is essential for people who have been victims of hate crime to rebuild their lives.
Get the summary report
Get the full research report
The full research report is published on the NatCen website.