Dorset Police says it remains 'steadfast' in its position on hate crime as a national campaign gets underway.

Hate Crime Awareness Week is an annual initiative to encourage the active participation of communities affected by hate crime, local authorities, police forces and other key partners.

Hate crime is any criminal offence perceived by the victim or any other person to be motivated by hostility or prejudice based on a person's race, religion/belief, sexual orientation, disability or because they are transgender.     

Dorset police hate crime lead, Chief Inspector Derek McKerl, has reaffirmed the force's commitment to those affected by these types of crimes.

He said: "Dorset Police is steadfast in its position with those affected by hate crime. Our officers and staff are dedicated to supporting those who need it and raising standards of hate crime investigations.

“We are aware that hate crime is underreported in Dorset and we would like to encourage our communities to use this week as an opportunity to report offences they have seen or experienced.

"Dorset Police takes a robust approach to hate crime, and together, we can tackle hate crimes and reduce their impact on our communities."

Reporting hate crimes can help the police understand the depth and complexities of hate crimes in Dorset and it enables the force to signpost people to the correct support.

Hate crimes and intelligence about ongoing hate crime activities can be reported quickly using its website.

Additionally, members of the public can report any intelligence they have about things they have seen or heard and information they have gathered about other crimes, suspicious activity or other various incidents.

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “Having spoken previously with victims of hate crime, I know the detrimental impact it can have and that’s why tackling it is a priority in my Police and Crime Plan.

“I believe we must listen to and learn from those with a lived experience of this terrible crime, which has no place in our society.

“I would encourage anyone who has experienced hate crime to come forward and report it. I will continue to work tirelessly to encourage tolerance, acceptance and understanding across Dorset.”