Hate crime
Nobody should be targeted because of who they are.
If you have experienced or witnessed a hate crime or hate incident in Gateshead, you can report it quickly and safely. You do not need proof. If you feel you were targeted because of your race, religion, disability, sexual orientation or transgender identity, you can report it.
Report hate crime in Gateshead
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, please call the police on 999.
If you have witnessed a hate incident or been a victim of hate crime because of your race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation or disability please report it.
Non-emergency reporting
- Call 101 to speak to police
- Report directly to Northumbria Police (opens new window) or True Vision (opens new window) online
- Report in person at a Safe Reporting Centre or Enhanced Safe Reporting Centre in Gateshead
If you have seen any offensive graffiti on a home, business or public area, you can report it online.
What is hate crime?
A hate crime is any criminal offence motivated by hostility or prejudice towards someone because of who they are.
A hate incident is behaviour that may not be a crime but is still harmful and upsetting.
Both can be reported.
Hate crime and incidents can include:
- verbal abuse or intimidation
- threats or harassment
- online abuse or messages
- damage to property
- bullying or repeated targeting
- physical assault
Choose what best describes your situation
I have experienced hate crime
You can report directly to the police using the options above. Reporting helps authorities understand what is happening locally and take action where needed.
You can choose how much information you share and whether you want to be contacted.
I witnessed something
You do not need to be the victim to report hate crime. Witness reports help build a clearer picture of what is happening in communities and can prevent escalation.
I am supporting someone or reporting professionally
Professionals, community organisations, and partners can report incidents using the same reporting routes. Encourage the person affected to report themselves where possible, but third-party reports are accepted
What happens when you report a hate crime
- Your report is recorded by the police
- The information is assessed and reviewed
- Police may contact you if you provide your details
- You may be offered support from independent organisations if you want it
Reporting online hate
If the incident happened online:
- take screenshots and save messages or links
- report the content using the platform's reporting tools
- then report it to the police using the links above
Why reporting matters
Reporting helps to:
- identify local issues and repeat locations
- protect individuals and communities
- improve responses from police and partners
- prevent behaviour from escalating
Even if the incident feels minor, your report makes a difference.
Hate Crime Awareness training and Community Cohesion support
We do not investigate hate crimes or provide direct support services. Our role is to work with police and partners to ensure reports reach the right agencies and to help improve community safety and community cohesion across Gateshead.
We deliver hate crime awareness training for organisations, community groups and partner agencies. The training helps staff and volunteers:
- understand hate crime and hate incidents
- recognise barriers to reporting
- respond confidently and appropriately
- support people to report concerns safely
We can also support organisations planning community events, discussion or activities that promote inclusion, understanding, and positive relationships between communities. Learn more about Community Cohesion work in Gateshead.
To find out more about training or partnership working, contact the Community Safety Team.