Officers from Police Scotland’s Forth Valley Division, alongside representatives from Falkirk Council, Adult Protection Social Work, NHS Forth Valley, and local councillor Gordon Forrest, gathered at Forth Valley Royal Hospital for an awareness event.
The initiative provided an opportunity to engage with the public, raise awareness about what constitutes a hate crime, and offer information on reporting pathways and available support for those affected.
Hate crime is defined as criminal behaviour driven by prejudice, where the offender’s actions are motivated by hatred towards disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, or transgender identity. Such actions undermine fundamental freedoms and rights.
“"There is never an excuse to attack or persecute someone, and especially not on the basis of any of the protected characteristics. Hate crime can damage a person’s confidence and leave them feeling isolated. This can spread through their family and into the wider community, leading to them feeling unwelcome, rejected, isolated and alone."
“"We know it can be hard for people to report a hate crime, and it is under-reported. Be reassured: Police Scotland will investigate every report of a hate crime or hate incident. Please remember it’s not just the person who’s a victim who can make a report; witnesses can come forward on their behalf and tell us what they’ve seen and heard."
Anton Stephenson added that while Police Scotland works with partner agencies to tackle hate crime, public assistance is crucial. He urged the public to come forward and report hate crime to help foster positive change.
