Dorset Police reminds communities that there is No Place for Hate
Dorset Police is reminding its communities that there is No Place for Hate at the start of Hate Crime Awareness Week – an annual campaign aimed at raising awareness of hate crime and encourage reporting and support for those affected.
A hate crime is any criminal offence perceived by the victim or another person to be motivated by hostility or prejudice based on race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, disability, or transgender identity.
Detective Chief Inspector Darren Moores, Dorset Police's hate crime lead, reaffirmed the Force's commitment to supporting victims and tackling hate crime across Dorset during the awareness week, which begins on Saturday 10 October 2026.
He said: "Dorset Police stands alongside everyone affected by hate crime. Our officers and staff are committed to supporting our communities, delivering high-quality investigations and ensuring those responsible are held to account.
"We know that not all hate crime incidents are reported. During Hate Crime Awareness Week, we encourage anyone who has experienced or witnessed hate crime to come forward and report it. By working together, we can take positive action, support victims and reduce the impact of hate crime on our communities."
Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick, said: “There is absolutely no place for hate in Dorset. Everyone has the right to feel safe, respected and valued in their community, regardless of their race, religion, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity.
"Hate crime can have a devastating impact on victims, their families and wider communities, which is why I fully support Dorset Police's commitment to tackling these offences, bringing offenders to justice and ensuring victims receive the support they need. I would encourage anyone who experiences or witnesses hate crime to report it. By speaking up, you are helping us better understand the issues facing our communities and enabling action to be taken against those who seek to divide and intimidate others.
“I recently presented a paper on hate crime to the Police and Crime Panel as this is an important issue that cannot be ignored. We must continue working together to ensure Dorset remains a safe, welcoming and inclusive place for everyone, while sending a clear message that hate will not be tolerated.”
Reporting hate crime helps Dorset Police build a clearer understanding of the issues affecting communities across Dorset and enables the Force to provide appropriate support and safeguarding to those who need it.
Hate crime can be reported quickly and easily online at:
www.dorset.police.uk/hatecrime
Members of the public can also share information about suspicious activity, crimes or incidents they have seen or heard through the Dorset Police website:
www.dorset.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/soh/seen-or-heard/
Every report helps Dorset Police to better understand community concerns, identify offenders and keep people safe.
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