HATE Crime Awareness Week runs from October 8–15 2022.

And Police Scotland is encouraging everyone to report incidents of hate that they experience or witness.

Officers say that if you have been targeted because of your disability, race, religion, sexual orientation or transgender identity, they want you to report it.

 If you are aware of someone else being targeted, they also want you to report it.

Hate crime is being targeted for disability, race, religion, sexual orientation or transgender identity could be considered a hate crime.

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Hate crimes can include but are not limited to: assault, verbal abuse, damage to property, threatening behaviour, robbery, harassment or online abuse.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Police Scotland takes hate crime very seriously. We will take appropriate action and do everything we can to bring those responsible to justice.

“Everyone in Scotland has rights that protect them from hate crime. Whether you live in Scotland, are here to work, or are visiting Scotland, you are protected by law from hate crime. This includes if you are currently seeking asylum or refugee status.

“If English is not your first language, we will seek the assistance of an interpreter/BSL interpreter for you. This is to help you give us your report in your first language.

“We want you to feel safe and comfortable when speaking to us. Where possible we will arrange to speak with you at a place you feel comfortable. You can also have a support person present.

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Police Scotland say that if officers have enough evidence, the person responsible will be charged with the offence and reported to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service

If there is not enough evidence they will still record your report as a hate incident and offer you support*

Once your case is with the Crown Office & Procurator Fiscal service you will be kept updated on the progress of your case.

*It is important to still report non-criminal hate incidents. This helps police get a clearer picture of what is happening in Scotland and where to focus our attention.

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Hate crimes can be reported in the following ways: By phoning 999 (emergency) 101 (non-emergency), In person at any police station, By completing a hate crime reporting form, at a Third Party Reporting Centre, Text 999 (registered users only), Contact Scotland-BSL and Keep Safe Scotland App.

In some cases victims and witnesses of hate crime do not feel comfortable reporting the matter directly to the police. They may feel more comfortable reporting it to someone they are familiar with or they may want support when they report.