Hampshire Police Urge Public to Help Tackle Hate Crimes at Pride Weekend
Hampshire Constabulary wants YOU to help them understand crimes targeting the LGB&T community better. Lesbian and Gay Liaison Officers (LAGLOs) will be out in force at Hampshire Pride in Winchester this Saturday, February 27, during LGB&T History Month.
Police Step Up to Support LGB&T Communities
Sergeant Kirsten Troman from Hampshire’s LGB&T Resource Group made it clear: “If you’ve been a victim of crime because of your sexual orientation or gender identity, you can speak to any police officer or staff member.”
She added, “Our LAGLO officers have special training to address issues facing LGB&T people. But under-reporting of hate crimes remains a big challenge.”
Hampshire Constabulary wants to boost awareness and trust so victims get the right support and offenders face justice.
Biggest-Ever Survey of Hate Crimes Underway
The force is running its largest survey yet on hate crimes, domestic violence, and sexual assaults in LGB&T communities. Sergeant Troman urges everyone to take part: “Your responses will help us improve respect, integrity and fairness when dealing with victims of homophobic, biphobic and transphobic abuse.”
Take the survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FJGR2GS
Spotlight on Hate Crimes
What counts as homophobic, biphobic or transphobic crimes? These include any incident perceived to be motivated by bias, like abuse or threats anywhere – from streets and sports grounds to workplaces and private spaces.
Important: You don’t have to be LGB&T yourself to be a victim. It’s about how the crime is seen by victims or witnesses.
How to Report Hate Crimes Safely
- Talk to police in confidence – you don’t have to reveal your sexual orientation or gender identity.
- If you don’t want to speak directly to officers, report incidents to a trusted friend or someone else.
- Your identity will be protected at all times.
- If you want to stay anonymous, police will respect that.
Non-urgent crimes: Call 101 or text 18001 101 (Mini-com users).
Emergencies: Always dial 999.
Report anonymously: Contact independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
At Hampshire Pride, officers will be driving a Ford Focus plastered with the LAGLO artwork, raising awareness and encouraging reporting of hate crimes.
Hampshire Constabulary and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner back this important campaign to make the county safer for everyone.
