Recent reports show a disturbing increase in violent hate crimes against Disabled people across the UK, with police data revealing a rise in both incidents and severity over the past year. These figures are a stark reminder of the urgent need to tackle the growing hostility faced by Disabled people in society.
As a leading Disabled People’s Organisation (DPO) in the South West, WECIL is committed to supporting initiatives that combat hate crime and empower Disabled people to live safely and independently. Partnering with organisations like SARI (Stand Against Racism and Inequality), WECIL is actively involved in hate crime awareness and support initiatives across the region.
The Scale of the Crisis
According to recent figures, reports of violent disability hate crime have risen significantly in the past 12 months. These crimes often involve verbal abuse, physical violence, or targeted harassment, leaving Disabled people feeling unsafe in their own communities.
- Violent Incidents Increase: Violent disability hate crimes have seen a sharp rise, reflecting not only an increase in reporting but also the persistence of deeply ingrained societal prejudice.
- Online Hate: Social media platforms remain a significant source of abuse, with many Disabled people experiencing targeted harassment online.
- Underreporting Remains a Problem: Despite the increase in recorded incidents, many crimes go unreported, often because victims fear they won’t be taken seriously or face further victimisation.
Hate crimes have devastating consequences for Disabled people, affecting not just their physical safety but also their mental health, confidence, and ability to participate fully in society. Victims often report feeling isolated and unsupported, with some becoming reluctant to leave their homes or engage in community activities.
One Disabled person shared their experience of being verbally abused on public transport, saying: “I was humiliated in front of everyone, and no one stepped in to help. It made me question whether I should even go out at all.”
These experiences reflect a wider culture of discrimination that needs urgent attention.
WECIL proudly support work led by SARI to raise awareness of hate crime and provide support to those affected. SARI pull together key ‘by-and-for’ organisations to regular conferences with Police and local authorities around Bristol, South Gloucestershire and Bath & North East Somerset, as well as infrastructure organisations such as transport, to agree shared strategies for tackling the issues and supporting victims.
Working with local authorities and police forces to ensure hate crime is taken seriously and that Disabled people feel confident in reporting incidents.
It is vital that anyone experiencing or witnessing a hate crime reports it to ensure action is taken. Reporting hate crime not only helps to hold perpetrators accountable but also contributes to the data needed to shape policies and allocate resources effectively.
If you or someone you know has been affected by hate crime, you can report it confidentially to SARI at https://saricharity.org.uk/report-a-hate-crime/.
