What is hate crime?
These are crimes against any person or group of people who are seen to be different or vulnerable.
They can have a devastating effect on the quality of life for those who are affected, those who fear becoming victims and the community.
What's being done about it?
Lewisham Council and the Police take hate crime very seriously and are acting to ensure that this type of crime is not tolerated and is dealt with in a swift and appropriate manner.
The Council, in partnership with the Police, external agencies and voluntary sector organisations, offer a confidential and supportive service to victims and witnesses of hate crimes.
How do I report a hate crime?
Whether you are the victim, witness or third party (this may be a friend or family member), it will now be easier to report a hate crime. Reports can be made at any of the hate crime reporting sites listed below. You can also use our hate crime reporting form.
These may be places you already attend or use for another purpose, but you will now also be able to report any incidents of racist, homophobic crimes or harassment, any other form of hate crime or domestic violence.
Reports will be taken seriously and in strictest confidence and will not be passed on to the Police unless express permission has been given. Victims, witnesses or third parties will be given support and advice and where appropriate offered referral to any other agency that may be able to help and who will understand your own particular needs.
If you feel more comfortable, your report can be kept anonymous and you will not be asked for any personal details such as your name or address. Your report will still be treated just as seriously.
The report will be passed onto the Community Safety Team where it will be logged and any action required will be followed through.
Hate crime reporting sites
Sydenham Citizens Advice Bureau
299 Kirkdale, Sydenham, London SE26 4QD
2000 Community Action Centre
199 Grove Street, Deptford, London SE8 3PG
Lewisham College
Room T40, Tressillian Buildings, Lewisham Way, London SE4 1UT
(students and staff only)
Lewisham Refugee Network
Parker House, 144 Evelyn Street, Deptford,
London SE8 5DD
Goldsmiths' College
New Cross Road, New Cross, London SE14 6NW
(students and staff only)
Lewisham Victim Support Scheme
300 Sangley Road, Catford, London SE6 2UT
Lewisham and Kent Islamic Centre
363 - 365 Lewisham High Street, London SE13 6NZ
170 Community Project
170 New Cross Road, New Cross, London SE14 5AA
Catford Citizens Advice Bureau
120 Rushey Green, Catford, London SE6 4HQ
Race Equality Action Lewisham
242 - 259 Lewisham High Street, London SE13