Somerset Council is joining forces with Avon and Somerset Police and Stand Against Racism and Inequality (SARI) to mark National Hate Crime Awareness Week 2026 (10 to 17 October).
A joint statement has been published as part of the campaign, reinforcing a shared commitment to making Somerset a safe, welcoming and inclusive place for everyone.
During the campaign, organisations across Somerset will be working together to raise awareness of hate crime, encourage reporting and show support for people and communities affected by prejudice and discrimination.
As part of the week, County Hall in Taunton will be illuminated in a series of colours representing the word HOPE, highlighting different ways communities and organisations can respond to hate crime:
- 13 October – H (Hate Crime Awareness) – Green
- 14 October – O (Operational Responses) – Red
- 15 October – P (Preventing Hate Crime) – Blue
- 16 October – E (Engaging Communities) – Yellow
The lighting display will act as a visible reminder that everyone has a role to play in recognising hate crime, supporting those affected and helping to create inclusive communities where hate has no place.
The campaign comes as partners continue to encourage greater reporting of hate crime, recognising that many incidents go unreported because people are unsure what support is available or how to report concerns.
Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts, Lead Member for Communities, Environment and Climate Change, said:
Everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and welcome in Somerset. Hate crime can have a devastating impact on individuals, families and communities. This week is an opportunity to raise awareness, challenge prejudice and ensure people know where to turn for help and support.
We want people to feel confident reporting hate crime, knowing they will be listened to and supported. By working together with our partners and communities, we can help build a Somerset where hate has no place.
Superintendent Karen Corrigan, Hate Crime Lead for Avon and Somerset Police, said:
There is absolutely no place for hate, intimidation or violence. Our officers continue to be out in communities, listening to concerns and providing reassurance, and we urge people to speak to them about any worries they have.
We are committed to supporting everyone to feel safe. We encourage anyone who has been affected, or who has information, to come forward. Reporting helps us build a clear picture and ensures we place our resources in the right areas.
Anyone who experiences or witnesses a hate crime is encouraged to report it to Avon and Somerset Police by calling 101, reporting online, or by calling 999 in an emergency. You can also report it in person at any police station.
Alternatively, reports can be made through SARI‘s website, an independent organisation that supports victims of hate crime and hate incidents across the region. Support is available whether someone chooses to report directly to the police or not.
A hate crime is any criminal offence that is motivated by hostility or prejudice based on a person’s race, religion, disability, sexual orientation or transgender identity. Hate incidents that do not amount to a criminal offence can still cause significant harm and should also be reported.
Read the joint statement here.
