Q139: I think I have been the victim of a homophobic / transphobic incident, what can the police do?

A homophobic incident is an incident that the victim perceives has happened due to their sexual orientation. A transphobic incident is an incident that the victim perceives has happened due to their transgender identity. These are also known as hate crimes - please see Q643 for more information.

Police take reports of these incidents very seriously and if you feel you have been the victim of a hate crime you should report the matter to your local police force. There is specific legislation that caters for such incidents.

Example: A person is beaten up and whilst being attacked the offender makes offensive comments about the victim's believed sexual orientation/transgender identity.

For more information please see the websites in related information. There is a link to the 'Help for Victims' website and a Youtube video guide to the website.