Hate is not part of the job: East Lancashire Police launch workplace support operation
Over 900 hate crimes recorded in the past year – with more than a third happening while victims were at work.
Police across East Lancashire have launched Operation Hail to tackle hate crime in the workplace, as part of Hate Crime Awareness Week.
The initiative sees officers working directly with employers to support victims and raise awareness of hate crime, particularly in public-facing roles. In the past year, 900 hate crimes were recorded across East Lancashire – and over a third (34.5%) of those occurred while people were simply doing their jobs.
Affected areas include Blackburn with Darwen, Hyndburn, Pendle, Burnley, Ribble Valley and Rossendale, with incidents reported in settings such as supermarkets, shops, takeaways, pubs, bars, healthcare services and taxis.
Throughout Hate Crime Awareness Week, officers visited businesses to speak with staff and employers about what constitutes a hate crime, how to report it, and where to find support. They also promoted the use of third-party reporting centres, which allow victims to report incidents confidentially and with assistance.
There are currently eight third-party reporting centres across East Lancashire. Details can be found on the Lancashire Constabulary website: How to report hate crime | Lancashire Constabulary.
Thanks to funding from the Lancashire Partnership Against Crime (LANPAC), officers distributed posters, stickers and leaflets to remind businesses and the public that hate is not part of the job.
Safer Neighbourhoods Inspector Liz Penson said: “Every week, we hear from individuals who’ve been targeted by hate – often while simply doing their jobs. No one should have to endure such abuse when they’re just trying to earn a living.
“Through Op Hail, we remain firmly committed to supporting victims and ensuring that those responsible for hate crimes are held accountable.
“The message is clear: Hate has no place in any workplace.”
Al Yusuf from LANPAC added: “LANPAC is proud to support Operation Hail and the important work being carried out to address hate crime in the workplace. Discrimination and abuse have no place in any professional setting, and no one should be subjected to such behaviour while simply doing their job.
“Through our funding and close partnership with the Police, we are committed to helping businesses and employees access the resources they need to report hate crimes and feel safe and supported at work.”