Hate crimes
Are you worried your child is involved in hate crime?
No one wants to think that their child is carrying out racist, homophobic or anti-religious crime. If you suspect they are, you need to put a stop to it.
Why are they doing it?
- Perhaps they are involved in bullying.
- Perhaps they don't understand the significance of targeting someone who might be different to them.
- Perhaps they're being encouraged by other people to get involved.
If you do think it's linked to bullying take a look at our dedicated section. Either get the facts about bullying, or for more info on how you can actually help them visit ‘Are you worried your child is involved in bullying?’
The best thing you can do is talk to them.
If you don't think they'll listen to you, don't risk it; talk to someone yourself.
- talk to the parents of his or her friends - see if they know anything about it
- contact their school
Report it
Perhaps you feel you need to report it, even if you know your child will get into trouble. It's better they get into trouble now than getting into much more serious trouble later:
- You can contact your local police station or speak to your Safer Schools Officer or Safer Neighbourhoods Team - if it's an emergency you should call 999.
- If you feel unable to talk to us you could contact the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111 (you won't have to give your name and your call will not be traced).
- Or for more information visit the ‘Reporting crime’ section on the Metropolitan Police website or the ‘How to contact us’ page on this site.
If I report it, what will happen to me and my child?
We will stay in touch with you and see you through the whole investigation, from start to finish. We will also give you a phone number, so you can call us directly to find out how the case is going or talk about anything that might be worrying you.
Your child may receive an Anti-Social Behaviour Order (ASBO) or court procedures, depending on the situation. The important thing is that by reporting it, you'll help your child - and your community.
Find out more about how we're tackling hate crime on the main Metropolitan Police website
Our Community Safety Units
The Metropolitan Police Service has made it a high priority to tackle hate crime in all its forms with specialist Community Safety Units located in each of our 32 boroughs. We investigate all hate crime, even in cases where there is only a small amount of information or when a victim has not reported it personally. And we record all incidents brought to our attention whether or not a crime has been committed.
Getting more help
If your child's not ready to talk to someone, but wants more advice, you should also encourage them to look online or call for more help Visit our ‘More help and advice’ page.
You too might need support. Consider looking at the Parentline Plus site or Be Someone to Tell.