Dorset Police: Hate Crime Awareness Week 'vital' in targeting offence
Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick says hate has no place in society
Dorset Police says it's committed to eradicating hate crime as an Awareness Week kicks off targeting the issue.
It aims to highlight people can report offences, and the support available for victims.
Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick says hate has no place in society - and victims will be heard and supported.
Hate Crime Awareness Week runs from Saturday 11 October to Saturday 18 October 2025, which hopes to raise awareness of hate crime and signpost victims to how they report offences and the support available to them.
Hate crime is any criminal offence perceived by the victim or any other person to be motivated by hostility or prejudice based on a person's race, religion/belief, sexual orientation, disability or because they are transgender.
'Officers and staff dedicated to supporting our communities'
The Force's hate crime lead, Chief Inspector Darren Moores, shares Dorset Police's commitment to those affected by hate crime.
He said: "Dorset Police stands with those affected by hate crime. Our officers and staff are dedicated to supporting our communities and raising standards of hate crime investigations.
"Not all hate crime is reported in Dorset and we encourage those affected or have witnessed a hate crime, to use this week as an opportunity to report offences they have seen or experienced. Dorset Police is steadfast in our commitment to tackling hate crime, and together, we can take positive action and reduce their impact on our communities."
A 'vital opportunity'
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick said: “National Hate Crime Awareness Week is a vital opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to building safer, more inclusive communities across Dorset. Hate has no place in our society, and I stand with all those affected by hate crime in any form.
“I will continue working with Dorset Police and our community partners to ensure that victims are heard, supported, and that offenders are held to account. Together, we must challenge intolerance and ensure everyone feels safe and respected.”
Reporting hate crimes helps Dorset Police understand the depth and complexities of hate crimes in Dorset and enables the Force to signpost people to the correct support.
Hate crimes and intelligence about ongoing hate crime activities can be reported using the Force website.