New hate crime helpline launched in Reading
Residents in Reading now have access to a confidential helpline
A new confidential helpline has been introduced in Reading to provide support to those affected by hate crimes.
The helpline, operated by Stop Hate UK, is available 24 hours a day and has been launched during Hate Crime Awareness Week.
It's designed to support residents who have experienced or witnessed prejudice.
Funded by the Reading Community Safety Partnership and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, the helpline offers support through trained staff, providing advice and resources in multiple languages.
For incidents in progress involving immediate danger, residents are advised to call 999, while non-emergency cases should be reported to police at 101.
The helpline can be contacted at 0800 138 1625 or via text at 07717 989 025. Anyone unsure whether an incident was hate-related can receive advice, and those wanting to discuss their experiences are encouraged to call.
The helpline has been adopted in other major areas including London, Manchester, Merseyside, and Newcastle.
Finn McGoldrick, Lead Councillor for Community Safety and Environmental Services, said:
“Reading is a wonderful town full of lots of different communities who deserve to feel safe. Everyone should be able to live, work, and study in our town without experiencing hate.
“To mark National Hate Crime Awareness Week, we are letting people know about this additional support to reassure residents that hate crime can and should be reported and support is available through the helpline."