THE Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) in Tenbury wants to hear from anyone who believes that they have been a victim of a ‘hate crime.’

It is working with the police to tackle the problem and is urging people who have been on the receiving end to come forward.

Hate crimes and incidents come in many different forms but are generally regarded as being linked with race, religion, sexual orientation, transgender identity or disability.

They can be reported in several ways, such as in person, by telephone or online to West Mercia Police.

West Mercia Police is also working in conjunction with South Worcestershire Citizens Advice Bureau to accommodate reporting at ‘third party reporting centres’ where victims already feel comfortable and safe.

Staff at the CAB have been trained to take these reports and will provide support to those people reporting incidents or their concerns.

“Tackling hate crime and encouraging people to report it remains a priority for West Mercia Police,” said Adrian Symonds, an equality and diversity adviser with West Mercia Police.

“No-one should suffer any form of abuse just because they are seen as different and hate crime can relate to many topics such as race, religion, sexual orientation, transgender identity or disability.”

Richard West of the CAB in Worcestershire said that there is often a hidden agenda behind ‘hate crime’ and the organisation is pleased to be working with police to tackle the problem.