York and North Yorkshire Unite for National Hate Crime Awareness Week

In a concerted effort to combat hate-related crime, York and North Yorkshire are coming together for National Hate Crime Awareness Week 2025, which runs from 11 to 18 October.

The initiative is coordinated by North Yorkshire Council, with backing from the City of York Council, the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, and North Yorkshire Police.

Chief Superintendent Fiona Willey, Head of Local Policing and Contact at North Yorkshire Police, emphasised the commitment to raising awareness about how to report hate crimes effectively.

“We are committed to raising awareness of how to report hate crime effectively, ensuring that victims and communities have the best possible chance of seeing offenders brought to justice.

“We will also be highlighting the vital work of organisations and groups that provide specialist support to victims and their families - recognising the strength it takes to seek help and the importance of knowing where to turn.

“Our message to anyone affected by hate crime is clear: You are not alone. We are here for you, and we urge you never to suffer in silence.”

A focal point of this year's campaign will be the York and North Yorkshire Hate Crime Conference, scheduled for 15 October, which has already reached full capacity with 130 participants. The conference will feature expert speakers and informative stalls, culminating in the launch of the York and North Yorkshire Hate Crime and Community Cohesion Plan for 2025-2028. This plan aims to outline a shared vision for tackling hate crime and promoting safer, more inclusive communities.

In addition to the conference, several events have been organised, including:

• A MENCAP session at Northallerton Town Hall on 13 October.
• Training for Hate Crime Champions in Harrogate on 14 October.
• A Freedom and Respect Day hosted by the Scarborough Neighbourhood Policing Team and North Yorkshire Council at Alma Square on 18 October, designed to unite local communities.

Cllr Heather Phillips, Executive Member for Corporate Services at North Yorkshire Council, remarked,

"North Yorkshire is renowned as a warm and welcoming place. However, while we celebrate these qualities, we must not become complacent. Hate crime, in any form, threatens people’s safety and undermines the inclusive values we hold dear."

Cllr Michael Pavlovic, Executive Member for Safer Communities at City of York Council, reiterated the commitment to maintaining safety, stating, "York is one of the safest cities in the country, and we will never stop working for that to continue." He further urged the community to utilise the new 'Start Safe, Stay Safe' app for reporting hate crimes.

Jo Coles, the Deputy Mayor for Policing, Fire and Crime in York and North Yorkshire, noted the community's resilience in the face of hate, referencing a recent incident involving racist graffiti. "Members of the community helped support the victims and clean up the graffiti. They are the best of us; supporting businesses and victims and showing that our communities are stronger than the hate from a small group," she said.

As part of the campaign, authorities encourage anyone who has experienced hate crime to report incidents. Victims can seek support through various channels, including the North Yorkshire Police website and dedicated charities that provide assistance without requiring direct police contact.

For more information about the activities and support services available during National Hate Crime Awareness Week, individuals are encouraged to visit the North Yorkshire Police website.