Perpetrators of hate crime could be made to meet with the very communities they have harmed in an effort to challenge their behaviour.
That is one of the ideas to be considered in a new programme for hate crime offenders to be developed across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.
Police and Crime Commissioner Willy Bach has agreed to fund the programme which Leicester University and Leicestershire Police will work collaboratively together on to scope and plan.
It will explore a range of different approaches using elements of restorative justice - the rehabilitation of offenders through reconciliation with victims and the community at large.
The PCC has also commissioned more literature aimed at raising awareness of hate crime and a project to bring the county’s major sporting clubs on board in the fight against it.
Lord Bach was concerned at a rise in hate crime incidents and offences across parts of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, following the EU Referendum. And he is keen to demonstrate his support for the continuing efforts by Leicestershire Police and other strategic partners in tackling the issue.
The Commissioner said: “Hate Crime and hate incidents are unacceptable and have no place in modern society. To be singled out and targeted because of a hostility or prejudice towards your disability, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation or transgender identity, is not simply abhorrent, it is illegal.
“We know that there are people who suffer in silence and don’t feel comfortable reporting hate crime or hate incidents, but I know there is a real commitment from both the police and other agencies to encourage victims to come forward.
“I’ve been encouraged by the efforts of so many people and organisations who are united in their desire to see hate crime eradicated from our communities. I believe this additional funding will make a positive difference in the fight against hate crime.”
This week – 14-18 November – is Anti-bullying Week. Find out more http://www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk/anti-bullying-week/
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Posted on Monday 14th November 2016