Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Hate Crime

Being lesbian, gay bisexual or transgender is not a crime.

What is homophobic or transphobic bullying ? Are you or someone you know……

• being called names?
• Being pushed, hassled or threatened?
• Being beaten up, spat at or kicked?
• Having your things taken or damaged?
• Being made fun of or called names by anyone?

Yes? That’s homophobic or transphobic bullying.

Homophobia is any abuse because you are or people think you are lesbian, gay or bisexual.

Transphobia is any abuse because you are or people think you are transgender, transvestite or transsexual.

Bullying is any action against any person or group, who seem different.

Personal Safety

• if you can, walk away
• go anywhere safe
• keep saying the same thing “go away”
• stay alert
• try to be with people you trust – not alone
• be confident (even if you don’t feel it)
• report it immediately

What Can I Do About It?

• talk through your problems will make a difference and help you to think through how to sort them out
• tell someone what’s happening…. Teacher, friends, parents or LGBT friendly organisations, including the police
• fill out a self reporting form (see Downloadable Documents)
• report what’s happening online
  • Report a Crime

Tell Someone

If you are, or know someone who is being bullied because of his or her race, religion, sexual orientation or gender, don’t be afraid to tell someone.

Don’t suffer in silence, if you can’t get anyone to listen to you, contact a local LGBT group who can offer you advice and support.

Not everyone who is lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender will experience bullying in school, college or the workplace.  If it does happen, it is important that you tell someone.

Reporting to the Police

• Don’t be afraid to report homophobic or transphobic abuse to the police
• We call this type of crime “hate crime”
• The police deal with hate crime regularly and can offer you help and support
• What you tell the police will be dealt with sensitively and professionally
• You will be taken seriously, if you don’t want to report it to the police, contact a support agency.  

Policies

Schools and colleges should have policies / procedures that protect you from discrimination and bullying.

Don’t suffer in silence, if you can’t get your school or college to listen to you, contact a local LGBT group or local LBGT youth group that can offer you advice and support.

You are not alone!

Support and Helplines

• Broken Rainbow Network - 0300 999 5428
• Confidential South West LGBT - 08456020818
• Victim Support - 0845 676 1020

• Reporting Form
  Printable form to report lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender hate crime to the Police.
  Last updated: 26/05/2010 (67 KB)
• LGBT Poster
  Poster on esbian, gay, bisexual and transgender hate crime.
  Last updated: 26/05/2010 (141 KB)