Hate crime policy
Cross Keys Homes recognises that a person can be a victim of hate crime due to race, religion, culture, ethnic origin, nationality, age, gender, sexual orientation, disability or another identifiable characteristic. Cross Keys Homes will not tolerate, and will take prompt and effective action against, all forms of hate crime. We will promote cohesion and understanding in our communities and safeguard communities from harm.
If you have been the victim of a hate crime, call us on 01733 38500 or complete the ASB reporting form on our website. If you are in immediate danger, call the police on 999.
If you want to find out more about how we deal with hate crime and work to prevent its occurrence, this policy will give you that information.
Our commitment to you
All received cases of hate crime will be allocated to a Neighbourhood Manager (ASB) and an investigation started within 24 hours of receiving the report (one working day).
A vulnerability risk assessment will be completed with the victim and for those at medium or high risk. For cases that are based in Peterborough, a referral will be made to the Problem Solving Group for a multi-agency response.
In circumstances where the victim has not reported the hate crime to the police, we will encourage and support them to do this.
In accordance with the Anti-Social Behaviour Policy and Procedure, we will work in partnership with the police (when required) and gather evidence through diary sheets, interviews, phone calls, street surgeries to enable further action to be taken. Work with the police to ascertain whether it is safe and appropriate to contact the perpetrator (if known).
We will consider an application for a civil injunction when there is a continued risk of harm to the victim and there are no other safeguards such as bail conditions already in place.
In circumstances where there is a criminal conviction for a hate crime offence, we will consider applying to the court to evict the resident.
Victims of hate crime will be supported throughout the case. A multi-agency support package will be put in place alongside the police and other agencies where applicable and be victim focused. Where possible, robust action should be taken against perpetrators to support the victim to remain in their home. Target hardening and security measures may be considered. In some cases, the police may support a transfer on emergency grounds because of continued significant risk of harm.
Preventative actions we take
We will work with partner agencies to promote cohesion in our communities and prevent hate crime and incidents. We will work with them to understand any emerging trends to direct resources and consider national and international events in assessing the impact on local communities.
What is hate crime?
The police and the CPS have agreed the following definition for identifying and flagging hate crimes:
"Any criminal offence which is perceived by the victim or any other person, to be motivated by hostility or prejudice, based on a person's disability or perceived disability; race or perceived race; or religion or perceived religion; or sexual orientation or perceived sexual orientation or transgender identity or perceived transgender identity."
Further information:
Who is responsible for managing hate crime?
The Anti-Social Behaviour Team:
- Investigate reported cases of hate crimes/ incidents in partnership with the police where possible.
- Safeguarding victims of hate crime from further harm through target hardening, transfer on emergency grounds, use of legal sanctions and through ongoing support.
- Making appropriate referrals for specialist support for victims where appropriate.
Legislation and regulation
This policy is written in accordance with the following regulatory and legislative requirements:
- Regulator of Social Housing Neighbourhood and Community Standard 2024
- Protection from Harassment Act 1997
- Crime and Disorder Act 1998
- Criminal Justice Act 2003
- Equality Act 2010
- Housing Act 1996
- ASB, Crime and Policing Act 2014
Information sharing
Cross Keys Homes has an information sharing agreement with key agencies and contractors to share information in relation to the delivery of our services. Information shared must be relevant and the Data Protection Procedure adhered to when handling data. You can find more information about how we manage your data in our Transparency and Privacy Policy.
Monitoring and review
The Hate Crime Policy was approved in July 2022 and will be reviewed every three years – next review July 2025.
Other related policies
· Anti-social behaviour Policy and Procedure