Stop Hate UK Helpline to launch in Rossendale

Stop Hate UK is pleased to announce the launch of its 24-hour Stop Hate Line helpline service in Rossendale.

Funding for the helpline has been provided by the Shiva Trust Charity who provide equal opportunities for the most marginalised in society and are a source of support for those affected, their families and their communities

Speaking about the programme, Anand Ennis-Cole of the Shiva Trust said: We Invest in Equality and Diversity. We want to Stop Hate, which is a common enemy for the Marginalised within society. Hate divides people and destroys communities.

Rose Simkins, Chief Executive of Stop Hate UK, said: “All forms of Hate Crime are significantly under-reported and some people and communities are reluctant or unwilling to talk to the police or their council.

“The Stop Hate Line, including all our range of reporting channels, gives all those directly affected by and witnesses of Hate Crime a safe and independent place to talk about their experiences and to explore their options for taking things further.”

Rose continued: “We are able to support people who may feel they have nowhere else to turn. Contact with our helpline, or other reporting channels, might be the first time an individual has talked to someone about the things they are experiencing. Other people may have tried to get help but find they are not satisfied with the response they received. No one should have to suffer Hate Crime in silence. The occurrence of Hate Crime has increased nationally but, working together with the council, statutory and community bodies, we can help to make a difference.”

People can contact the Stop Hate Line anonymously if they prefer. Where someone has chosen to give their personal details to Stop Hate UK, their trained staff and volunteers will ask who they want their details to be shared with. The charity can also share information with the police and council, with consent, to ensure that those affected by Hate Crime, in any way, can access the support they need.

The Stop Hate Line is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year on 0800 138 1625. The helpline is also available by text message on 07717 989 025 and by email to talk@stophateuk.org. British Sign Language (BSL) users can report via the interactive BSL link on our website www.stophateuk.org. Victims and witnesses can also chat on the web or fill in an online form by visiting www.stophateuk.org/talk.

Stop Hate UK is a national charity that provides independent and confidential support to people who are affected by all forms of Hate Crime. The Stop Hate Line is Stop Hate UK’s Hate Crime reporting and support helpline. Anyone in Rossendale can contact the Stop Hate Line to talk about how they have been directly or indirectly affected by Hate Crime