Cumbria Police is supporting Hate Crime Awareness Week, taking place from 10 to 17 October 2026, to raise awareness of hate crime, encourage reporting, and reassure communities that hate crime will not be tolerated.
A hate crime is 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 race, religion, sexual orientation, disability or transgender identity.
Throughout the week, officers and staff will be working with partners and local communities across Cumbria to promote awareness of hate crime, highlight the support available to victims, and encourage anyone affected to come forward.
Throughout Hate Crime Awareness Week, Cumbria Police will be sharing a series of social media posts to help people better understand what hate crime is, how to recognise it, and the support available to victims. The campaign will also highlight how incidents can be reported and reinforce the message that hate crime has no place in Cumbria's communities.
As part of Hate Crime Awareness Week, Cumbria Police is also launching Operation Hail in Carlisle and Barrow. The initiative works with local employers to increase awareness and understanding of hate crime, helping businesses recognise incidents, support employees who may be affected, and encourage reporting.
Participating venues will receive posters and window stickers featuring QR codes that link directly to hate crime reporting information and support services.
Superintendent Annette McClement said:
“Hate crime can have a devastating and long-lasting impact on victims, their families and the wider communities they belong to.
“Nobody should feel unsafe, targeted or isolated because of who they are, their race, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.
“We want people to know that hate crime is taken seriously, and we encourage anyone affected, or anyone who witnesses this behaviour, to report it to us.
"By reporting, you can help us take action, support victims, and build a clearer picture of the issues affecting our communities.
“We are committed to working closely with partners and community groups across Cumbria to improve trust, increase awareness and ensure people know where to access support.
“Working together we can help create safer, more inclusive communities.”
Victims and witnesses can report hate crime directly to Cumbria Police by calling 101 or online via our reporting service.
In an emergency, always dial 999.
Reports can also be made through third-party reporting centres and support organisations.