Colchester City Council and the Colchester Community Safety Partnership are joining communities across the UK to support National Hate Crime Awareness Week, taking place from 11 to 18 October 2025.
This important campaign shines a light on the impact of hate crime and encourages people to speak out, seek support, and stand together against all forms of discrimination. It’s part of a wider commitment to making Colchester a welcoming, inclusive, and safe place for everyone. You can find more information about what hate crime is, here.
Hate crime can take many forms, from verbal abuse to threats or physical attacks, and is often driven by prejudice or hostility. Raising awareness and encouraging reporting helps ensure that victims feel supported and that our communities remain strong and united. It’s a call to action for solidarity, education, and prevention, with events across the country sending a clear message that there is no place for hate in the UK.
As part of the week, the council’s Community Safety team will be hosting a friendly and informative marketing stall in Culver Square on Monday 13 October, from 10am to 3pm, alongside partners including Essex Police, Essex Sexual Health Service, Eastlight Homes, Colchester Borough Homes (CBH) and the SOS Bus. CBH will also be at Greenstead Community Centre on Friday 17 October, continuing the conversation and offering advice and support.
These events are open to everyone, whether you want to learn more, ask questions or simply show your support. It’s a chance to meet the teams working to keep Colchester safe and inclusive, and to find out how you can help make a difference.
Cllr Jocelyn Law, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Public Protection, said: “Everyone deserves to feel safe, valued and respected in their community. Hate crime has no place in Colchester, and this week is about coming together to raise awareness, support victims and celebrate the diversity that makes our city so special.”
"We’re proud to be working alongside our partners and residents to show that Colchester is a place where diversity is celebrated and hate is never tolerated.”
Recently, the council was officially recognised as a Council of Sanctuary by the City of Sanctuary Local Authority Network, bolstering the council’s commitment to fostering a culture of welcome, inclusion, and integration support for people seeking sanctuary.
For more information on National Hate Crime Awareness Week, click here.
It’s important to report hate crime if you’ve experienced it yourself or witnessed it happening to someone else. In an emergency, call 999. You can also report it online here or by calling 101.
Page last reviewed: 10 October 2025