Sefton Council leader Cllr Marion Atkinson has backed the Merseyside Police’s commitment to dealing with incidents of hate crime.

Hate crimes being under-reported

Merseyside Police state they believe hate crimes are being under-reported.

Following the recent disorderly events in Southport and Liverpool, Merseyside Police’s Community Engagement and Local Policing and Investigation Teams are working closely alongside community leaders; Councils businesses and residents in the communities affected. This is to ensure that comprehensive policing plans are in place to respond to information; correct misinformation; and introduce appropriate measures to support those people who are targeted.

Dedicated Hate Crime Co-ordinators

Merseyside Police has dedicated Hate Crime Co-ordinators who lead teams of specially trained officers. The teams monitor, assess, and investigate hate crimes across Merseyside, ensuring that victims are supported throughout the process, and do all in our power to ensure that offenders are put before the courts.

You can use this link to report hate crime and find out about the specialist support services available for victims of hate crime.

Zero-tolerance approach

Cllr Atkinson said: “Sefton Council has a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of hate crime targeted at people because of their race or ethnic identity, religion or belief, disability, sexual orientation or transgender identity.

“I would urge anyone who experiences assaults, threats or harassment, who has their property  damaged or who receives offensive letters, online abuse or graffiti to report it whether it is a one-off event or a series of incidents.

“The more people who report hate crimes, the better understanding the authorities  can get and the more they can do to prevent it from happening.”

Sefton Council’s management team has made it clear to staff that any form of racism or discrimination will be dealt with immediately and urging them to report any incidents of hate crime.

Cllr Atkinson has also welcomed a reminder from Merseyside’s Police & Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell that people should think carefully before sharing information online.

Misinformation and rumour

The Commissioner said: “We are seeing more and more examples of misinformation and rumour being circulated as fact online, often done with malicious intent or with a specific purpose of influencing other people’s opinions. This is something we all need to be aware of and have in the back of our minds when viewing information online.”

Results

Cllr Atkinson said: “Sadly, we have seen all to clearly the results of people spreading misinformation online.

“I would urge everyone to think before sharing and ask themselves whether the information comes from a trusted source, what the full story behind the headline is and what the consequences of sharing the message might be.

“Just a few seconds’ thought can prevent an awful lot of harm.”

Information and support for people affected by the events in Southport can be found at www.sefton.gov.uk/southport-together.