Welsh Government
Printable version E-mail this to a friend

Launch of Criminal Justice Board to tackle hate crime in Wales - Communities Minister launches Hate Crime Awareness Week

A new specially created working group to tackle hate crime will be outlined later today by Communities Minister Jeff Cuthbert when he launches Hate Crime Awareness Week (14 – 18 October).

The Hate Crime Criminal Justice Board Cymru will ensure a co-ordinated response to dealing with hate crime across Wales. It brings together representatives from the Welsh Government, police, councils and other agencies. The board will be chaired by the Crown Prosecution Service and meet for the first time on Friday.

The Minister will say:

“Many organisations have a responsibility to address hate crime and I am keen for us to get together and consider how we can work together with victims and offenders.  

“Hate crime is not tolerated in Wales and we are committed to tackling it.”

Speaking at today’s Hate Crime Awareness Week launch the Minister will remind his audience that the Welsh Government’s consultation on Tackling Hate Crimes and Incidents: A Framework for Action closes on Friday. The consultation will play a key role in informing the framework, which together with its delivery plan will be published in the spring.

The hate crime framework outlines steps ministers will take to address hate crime. Actions include challenging stereotypes and helping victims have the confidence to report crimes against them.

The Minister will say:

“No-one should suffer in silence and I encourage those being victimised to tell someone what is happening. I hope that the action we are taking will give people the confidence to come forward. Not only does hate crime affect the victim, but it can also impact on their family, friends and anyone who witnesses an incident.

“Early next year I am forming an independent advisory group who will provide advice and input as well as monitor our progress.”

Hate Crime Awareness Week aims to raise awareness of what constitutes a hate crime, to encourage victims to come forward and to promote support services and resources.

Spotlight on women at Serco – Anita’s story