Homophobic Incidents
REPORTING HOMOPHOBIC INCIDENTS
What is a homophobic incident?
"Any incident which is perceived to be homophobic or transphobic by the victim or any other person"
This means any incident (not necessarily a crime) which is motivated by prejudice against LGBT people and/or their friends and families. This might include, for example, things such as harassment, verbal abuse, physical threats, assaults, graffiti and damage to property.
Why should you report?
Reporting incidents assists the police in tackling homophobic / transphobic crime. The information you provide is valuable, it enables the police to identify areas of concern, patterns of behaviour and could possibly help catch / prosecute offenders. If left unreported, the offenders are free to repeat similar offences, and think they can get away with this sort of offence because they won’t get reported.
You do not have to be the victim to report an incident: If someone you know is a victim, or if you witness such an incident then please report it.
Any person can say it's homophobic
The incident need not be a crime
No incident is trivial
All homophobic incidents and crimes will be recorded
Suppose I want to remain anonymous?
You can report homophobic incidents anonymously and they will be logged, which will help with monitoring frequency and patterns of such incidents. If you decide to give you personal details the police will be able to investigate more fully and you can get the service you deserve and the support you need.
If I give my details, will the police contact me?
Only if you want them to. You choose the preferred method, e.g. by mobile phone or at another address. So if you are not out at home the police can still help you.
What are the ways of reporting an incident?
In an emergency call 999
Fill in a TRUE VISION self-reporting form online or by hand
Phone the Constabulary on 0845 125 3545 or call in at your local police station
Report it to any police officer
Report it via a third party agency, e.g. Project Oscar, Victim Support, Lancashire Friend. Victim Support have published new guidance to strengthen its services for LGBT victims of crime, and to raise awareness of the widespread under-reporting of homophobic and transphobic hate crime. Victim Support branches can offer you emotional and practical support as well as third party reporting facilities.
Is there a special officer who LGBT people can talk to about incidents?
In each of the six policing areas in Lancashire, there are dedicated hate crime officers. They can provide you with advice, discuss what has happened to you or put you in touch with other agencies who may be able to help you. They are sensitive to your needs and any subsequent action will only be taken with your agreement and interests in mind.
Central Division (Preston): 01772 209797, or email diversity.preston@lancashire.pnn.police.uk
Southern (Leyland): 01772 415866
Western (Blackpool): 01253 607242
Northern (Lancaster): 01995 607870
Eastern (Blackburn with Darwen): 01254 353638
(Hyndburn/Ribble Valley): 01254 353718
Pennine (Burnley): 01282 472190
Headquarters: 01772 412642
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