[C]umbria Constabulary is partnering with a number of organisations as the force supports International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHO) 2017.
To mark the day the Constabulary, partnering with LGBThQ, OutREACH Cumbria, Trans Lakes, the NHS, Victim Support and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, in holding a drop-in event.
The public are invited to pop into the LGBThQ at 21 Spencer Street, Carlisle, between 11.30am and 1.30pm on Wednesday 17th May 2017 for tea and a chat.
Refreshments will be free of charge with donations to the LGBThQ welcome.
Philippa Laskey, Chair of OutREACH Cumbria said: “OutREACH Cumbria are fully committed to raising awareness of hate crime in the region and would really like to encourage anyone who has been a victim of it to report it to the police. We acknowledge that hate crime can be upsetting and difficult to deal with, but we are here to provide support to anyone who has been affected.”
Pam Eland from the LGBThQ, Cumbria Pride and PiNC (Pride in North Cumbria) added
“LGBThq support IDAHO day and promote inclusivity and challenge Homophobia Transphobia and Biphobia. The centre provides a safe supportive environment for the LGBT and wider community.”
Deputy Chief Constable Michelle Skeer said: “IDAHO 2017 offers the opportunity, not just Cumbria Constabulary but to people and organisations across our county, to send out a clear message – homophobia has no place in Cumbria.
“In 2017, nobody should have to face any kind of discrimination or intolerance for their sexual orientation. But, for anyone who does find themselves subject to such an act, we offer victims a range of reporting options as part of our commitment to tackling hate crimes of all forms.
“It is recognised here in Cumbria and nationally that hate offences often go unreported, which is why we have these options in place, to try to make the process as simple as possible.”
Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner Peter McCall said: “The effect of hate crime should not be underestimated because not only does it impact the life of the victim, but it can spread fear amongst our communities.
“We are committed in Cumbria to doing what we can to raise awareness of how to understand if you have been a victim of hate crime, and what steps can be taken to come forward and report it. I am determined, we will not tolerate hate crime in Cumbria.”
Reporting options available for reporting hate crimes in Cumbria include visiting a Hate Crime
Reporting Centre, reporting via the True Vision app and much more.
For full details visit HERE.
