LGB Hate Incidents

These pages give you information on where to get help if you, or someone you know, has had a problem with attack, abuse or harassment because of their sexuality.

We provide support to people who experience incidents motivated by hatred or prejudice as well as bringing perpetrators to justice.      

Remember, in an emergency always call 999.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why report an incident?

    Not all incidents will be crimes, but it is important to report all incidents. This means that if you feel an incident directed towards you was motivated by homophobia, biphobia or transphobia, or you’ve witnessed something, then you should report it. By reporting incidents you also help us to offer support if it’s needed and to bring offenders to justice.

    Related subjects: 
    LGB Hate Incidents
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  • What is an LGB incident?

    An LGB hate incident is any incident that is perceived to be homophobic or biphobic by the victim or any other person. These include:
    physical abuse, spitting, punching, kicking, slapping, pushing or behaviour which leads to physical injury.  This can also be sexual abuse threats, verbal abuse or written/printed abuse, Words of a threatening nature, graffiti or other attacks on property or your home, harassment, persistent intimidating or threatening behaviour which is spread over a period of time.

    Related subjects: 
    LGB Hate Incidents

  • What’s the difference between direct and indirect prejudice?

    Sometimes prejudice can be subtle such as the use of negative portrayals of LGB people in the media. At other times, it can be direct such as bullying, verbal abuse and or physical attack. Generally, direct homophobia and biphobia  are classed as incidents.  Some incidents are criminal offences and the police can respond.  However, there are other ways of dealing with them within the legal system.

    Related subjects: 
    LGB Hate Incidents

  • What should I do if I’m threatened?

    • Make noise and shout for help and try and go to a safe place, as soon as possible
    • Report the incident immediately but in emergencies dial 999 to report to the police 
    • Report straight away to any other relevant authority, for instance, head teacher in a school, housing officer, youth worker, bus driver, your employer etc.
    • Use the self-reporting forms
    • Keep a record of all incidents as they happen, eg. times, dates, what happened, where, witnesses, etc.. Keep offensive material as it forms evidence in legal action, for instance, graffiti on a wall or a leaflet/note through your door. Do not touch it unless you have to, as police may want to test for fingerprints. Do not erase abusive text-messages or messages on your answer machine, as they are evidence. If you have been attacked, don’t shower or change your clothes as it may destroy evidence. If you have had your keys taken, change the locks.
    Related subjects: 
    LGB Hate Incidents
    Trans Hate Incidents