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I wanted to provide an update regarding Hate crime, which some members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey. If someone has been physically or verbally abused due to who they are, they may have been a victim of a hate crime or incident. Our website provides more information on what can classify as a hate crime, but it can include targeting someone due to their race, religion, sexual orientation, disability or whether they are transgender. Hate crime prevention focuses on fostering inclusive environments, protecting potential victims, and ensuring robust reporting mechanisms. A hate crime is defined as a criminal act motivated by prejudice based on characteristics such as race, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or transgender identity.
Individual Prevention and Safety
- Stay Aware: Remain observant of your surroundings, especially in areas where you feel vulnerable. If you feel unsafe, move to a well-lit, populated area.
- Avoid Escalation: If targeted by verbal abuse, prioritize your physical safety. Do not engage or argue if it puts you at risk; instead, seek a safe exit.
- Digital Security: Protect yourself online by using privacy settings on social media, blocking harassing accounts, and avoiding sharing sensitive personal information with strangers.
Community and Institutional Action
- Education and Awareness: Schools and workplaces should implement diversity and inclusion training to challenge stereotypes and promote empathy.
- Visible Support: Communities can display symbols of inclusion (such as "Safe Space" stickers) to signal that hate speech and behaviour are not tolerated.
- Bystander Intervention: If it is safe to do so, support a victim by standing near them or documenting the incident. If it is unsafe to intervene directly, call emergency services immediately.
Reporting and Documentation
- Record Details: If you witness or experience a hate crime, note the time, location, description of the perpetrator, and the specific words or actions used.
- Report Every Incident: Even "minor" incidents should be reported to the police or local advocacy groups. Reporting helps authorities identify patterns and allocate resources to high-risk areas.
- Third-Party Reporting: If you are uncomfortable going to the police, use third-party reporting centres or anonymous hotlines designated for hate crime advocacy.
Support Systems
- Victim Support Services: Utilize local charities and organizations that provide specialized counselling and legal advice for victims of prejudice-motivated crimes.
- Policy Advocacy: Support local legislation that strengthens hate crime laws and provides better protection for marginalised groups.
 If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101. Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years. | 
