Derby City Council is lending its support to National Hate Crime Awareness Week, which commences tomorrow and runs until Saturday 17 October. The initiative aims to unite police, partners, and communities nationwide to raise awareness of available support and encourage individuals to speak out against hostility.
A hate crime is defined as a criminal offence motivated by prejudice or hostility towards an individual's disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, or transgender identity. Such crimes can encompass threats, verbal abuse, harassment, online abuse, property damage, and physical assault, often leaving a significant and lasting impact on victims and the wider community.
In the period of 2025-26, Derby recorded an increase in hate crime reports, with 155 more incidents – a rise of 15%. The most substantial increase was observed in racially motivated offences, which saw 85 additional reports, followed by incidents related to disability and religion or faith.
Residents are strongly encouraged to familiarise themselves with the signs of hate crime, offer support to those affected, and report any incidents they witness or experience. Reporting options include dialling 999 in emergencies, contacting Derbyshire Constabulary on 101 for non-emergencies, or reporting online via the police website. Additionally, Stop Hate UK provides a 24-hour freephone service on 0800 138 1625, with a text relay service for Deaf people on 18001 0800 138 1625. Anonymous reporting is also possible through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Further details on hate crime and reporting procedures are available on the Derby City Council website. Since its launch in December 2025, the Council’s 'No Place for Hate' campaign has garnered support from numerous businesses, charities, community groups, organisations, and schools, reinforcing the message that abuse, harassment, and bullying are unacceptable in Derby. Organisations wishing to join the campaign can find more information online.
“"Derby is a welcoming, diverse city, and hate has no place here. We want everyone to feel safe and know that any incidents reported will be taken seriously. National Hate Crime Awareness Week is an opportunity for us to remind the public that support is available. We're urging everyone to join our No Place for Hate campaign to show there's a zero-tolerance approach to hate in Derby."
