PEOPLE with experience of hate crime in Cornwall are being invited to a conference.
Safer Cornwall, a partnership of public and community organisations, is holding the event on Saturday, September 19, at Truro College.
The partnership is inviting everyone with any experience of hate crime, either personally or professionally, to attend the conference to help shape future services.
Safer Cornwall launched its ‘Say No To Hate’ campaign in 2013 to raise awareness about hate crime and to encourage victims and witnesses to report incidents.
The campaign continues to have a regular presence at events throughout Cornwall.
The conference will hear from Dr Theo Blackmore on how hate crime affects people with disabilities or learning difficulties; Andy Hunt, who will talk about the effect on those who are lesbian, gay, bi-sexual or transgender; and David Hampshire and Dr Jasmin Tregidga on those who experience hate crime because of their race or religion. A range of agencies will then talk about what support is available.
The afternoon will take the form of workshops where everyone will have the opportunity to express their views about the way hate crime is tackled in Cornwall. Partnership chair Chief Superintendent Julie Fielding said: ‘Understanding the huge impact hate crime can have on victims and giving them a greater voice is important in helping all of us to tackle the issue. ‘It may not be immediately apparent that such things happen in Cornwall, but they do and we wish to raise awareness, encourage victims and witnesses to report incidents and ensure that we tackle this issue.’ Cornwall Council cabinet member for communities Geoff Brown said: ‘Cornwall is a safe place to be but the sad fact is this kind of hate incident happens all over the country and Cornwall is not immune.
‘Hate crime can have enormous impact on people’s lives – physically and emotionally. It can affect a victim’s well-being, it can damage their health and it can affect their outlook on life. ‘Sadly, many victims feel that they cannot approach services for help so we don’t know the full extent of the problem and that is why we want those affected to come to this conference and share their experiences.’
The conference is free to attend but places are limited, so book by emailing [email protected] or by calling 01872 324692.