Redbridge stands against Hate Crime during National Awareness Week

Published: 12 October 2026

Redbridge Council and its partners are encouraging residents to stand against hate crime and learn more about the support available during National Hate Crime Awareness Week, which takes place from 10 to 17 October.

A hate crime is any crime committed because of hostility or prejudice towards a person's race, religion, disability, sexual orientation or transgender identity. Victims can experience hate crime in many forms, including verbal abuse, harassment, criminal damage, assault and online abuse.

As one of London's most diverse boroughs, Redbridge is committed to ensuring everyone feels safe, respected and included. Reporting hate crime is vital. It helps agencies understand patterns of offending, support victims and witnesses, and work with policing partners to bring offenders to justice.

Throughout the week, the Council will be using social media to challenge some of the common myths surrounding hate crime. This will include raising awareness that hate crime is not limited to physical violence and can also include verbal abuse, intimidation, threats, online abuse and criminal damage.

The campaign will also highlight the importance of reporting incidents and reassure residents that every report helps authorities take action and better understand the scale of hate crime in local communities.

Cllr Sunny Brar, Cabinet Member for Enforcement, Community Safety and Cohesion, said: "Redbridge is proud to be one of London's most diverse boroughs, and everyone should feel safe and respected in their community. Hate crime has no place in Redbridge, and nobody should ever be subjected to it.

"Reporting hate crime really does make a difference. It helps the police and their partners understand where problems are occurring, support victims, and take action against offenders. If you experience or witness hate crime, please report it. The police will act, and by coming forward you can help protect others, make our communities safer and send a clear message that hate will not be tolerated in Redbridge.

"I would also encourage residents to visit our information stall at The Exchange, Ilford, on 15 October. Council and partner representatives will be on hand to provide advice, information and support, as well as explain how to recognise and report hate crime. Whether you have experienced hate crime, witnessed it, or simply want to learn more, please come along and speak to us."

Residents can also speak to council and partner representatives at a National Hate Crime Awareness Week information stall at The Exchange, Ilford, on Thursday 15 October between 11am and 4pm, where information, advice and support will be available.

Hate crime can be reported in several ways, including online, in person, by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency.

By speaking up and challenging hate, residents can help make Redbridge a safer and more inclusive borough for everyone.

Recognise it. Report it. Stop it.