Appeal for ambassadors to support Sussex hate crime victims

People harassed because of a personal characteristic, whether it is for their race, religion, sexual orientation, disability or gender identity, or something else, is harmful to individuals and can be corrosive to communities.

This is hate crime and Sussex Police is looking for individuals who can support those who may become victims.

To unpick some of the myths around hate crime, Sussex Police is inviting people become a Hate Crime Ambassador by attending one of two coaching sessions during January.

Ambassadors will be given information about what hate crime is, how it can be reported and what happens when it is.

What is a Hate Crime Ambassador and who can get involved?

The force is looking for people who are interested in raising awareness of what hate crime is and encouraging victims to report to police or partner agencies across Sussex.

Volunteers will need to attend a two hour coaching session, and will have the opportunity to refresh and enhance their knowledge and understanding at twice yearly seminars.

Sussex Police Hate Crime Sergeant, Peter Allan said: “We know that a lack of understanding about what hate crime is and at what level you can report it to the police are two of the biggest challenges. I hope these coaching sessions will be a springboard for discussions about hate crime, in the pub, at work, at the gym, at the many clubs and activities people take part in on a regular basis and well, anywhere really.

“If you are interested in attending one of the two sessions or learning more about becoming a Hate Crime Ambassador please contact me on 07867 501150 or e-mail [email protected].

The first two sessions will take place at Hastings Police Station from 11am on Sunday January 11 and at Brighton Police Station from 6.30pm on Thursday January 22. Further dates will be released soon for sessions across West Sussex and at other locations across East Sussex and Brighton and Hove.