** Content Warning. Sensitive topics discussed below**
From the 10th to 17th of October 2026, Standing Together is proud to support National Hate Crime Awareness Week (HCAW) at the University of Leicester. This year's theme, H.O.P.E., reminds us that we all have a part to play in creating a community where everyone feels safe, respected and valued.
H – Hate Crime Awareness
O – Operational Responses
P – Prevention
E – Engagement
Hate Crime Awareness Week is an opportunity to raise awareness of hate crime, encourage understanding, and inspire action. It reminds us that challenging prejudice and supporting those affected is a shared responsibility.
We encourage all students and staff to be active bystanders by challenging unacceptable behaviour in line with the University's Dignity and Respect Policy and Senate Regulation 11.
It is everyone's responsibility to help make the University of Leicester a safe, inclusive and respectful place to study, work and thrive. By treating one another with dignity, challenging inappropriate behaviour, and promoting equality, we all contribute to a positive campus culture where everyone belongs.
What is a Hate Crime?
The law recognises five protected characteristics in relation to hate crime:
- Race
- Religion
- Disability
- Sexual orientation
- Gender identity (transgender identity)
A hate crime is defined as:
"Any criminal offence which is perceived by the victim or any other person to be motivated by hostility or prejudice based on a person's race or perceived race, religion or perceived religion, sexual orientation or perceived sexual orientation, disability or perceived disability, or because a person is transgender or perceived to be transgender."
A hate incident is any incident that the victim, or anyone else, believes is motivated by prejudice towards someone because of their race, religion, disability, sexual orientation or transgender identity. While a hate incident may not always amount to a criminal offence, it can still have a significant impact and should be taken seriously.
What Does Hate Crime Look Like?
Hate crime can take many forms, including:
- Verbal abuse
- Intimidation
- Harassment
- Threats
- Criminal damage
- Physical assault
- Online abuse
The effects of hate crime often reach far beyond the individual directly affected. Families, friends and wider communities can also experience fear, anxiety and isolation, undermining the sense of safety and belonging that every person deserves.
Why Awareness Matters
Many people who experience hate crime choose not to report it. Some may be unsure whether what happened qualifies as a hate crime or hate incident, while others may worry they will not be believed or fear further repercussions.
By raising awareness, we can:
- Help people recognise hate crime and hate incidents.
- Encourage victims and witnesses to report incidents.
- Challenge prejudice, discrimination and harmful stereotypes.
- Promote kindness, respect and inclusion.
- Build stronger, safer communities where everyone feels they belong.
A Shared Responsibility
Preventing hate crime is not the responsibility of one individual or organisation—it belongs to all of us.
Whether it's challenging discriminatory behaviour, supporting someone who has experienced hate, or simply treating others with dignity and respect, every action contributes to a more inclusive community.
This National Hate Crime Awareness Week, let's stand together to promote understanding, challenge hate, and foster a culture where everyone can live, learn and work free from fear and discrimination.
Together, we can build a University community that is safer, stronger and more inclusive for everyone.
#HOPE
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Links and Resources
- We can appreciate that this is a sensitive issue and are mindful to ensure you are well informed and are aware of the support available.
- If you feel impacted by the events or information displayed on campus or online during this campaign, you can seek support from the Standing Together Team.
- If you would like to make a disclosure or access Standing Together support -use Report & support to make a disclosure or email standingtogether@leicester.ac.uk
- For more information about the campaign - visit NationalHCAW
- Further support information can be accessed within the support tab. In addition to support available in the community.