Hate crimes

Are you worried about your own involvement in hate crime?

If you think you're caught up in something you shouldn't be, like verbal abuse, threatening behaviour or violence - and it's targeted at someone who you think is somehow different from you - it might be considered ‘hate crime’. If it's because of their skin colour, religion, beliefs, sexual orientation, gender identity or maybe a disability, then that's exactly what it is.

You could be getting involved because you're getting pressure from your friends. But it's not right. It could land you in prison and badly affect your future, not to mention causing other people a great amount of hurt.

If you're involved and you want to stop, it's in your hands to do so.

What to do about it

If you want to stop, it's important that you talk to a friend, or a brother or sister who's not involved. Even if you think they may be angry with you, you'll probably find they want to listen and help.

Alternatively you can speak to your parents, carer or another responsible adult, such as a teacher at school.

You should also consider speaking to someone professional at a helpline like ChildLine. The people you talk to won't judge you - they'll offer help and support.

Don't keep it quiet - report it

You can come in to any police station, anywhere in London, or we can arrange to visit you at home, if that's easier or more comfortable for you. The Metropolitan Police Service has made it a high priority to tackle hate crime in all its forms, with specialist Community Safety Units in each of our 32 boroughs. So, if you have been involved in hate crime, be aware that you may have committed a criminal offence and there might be consequences.


Getting more help

If you're not ready to talk to someone, but want help visit our ‘More help and advice’ page.

Or to speak to someone in confidence you could also try the following:


Hate crimes