Somerset Unites for National Hate Crime Awareness Week
Council, police, and charity partner to raise awareness, encourage reporting, and support communities affected by prejudice.
By Verity Coombes
••3 min read
AI
County Hall in Taunton illuminated with coloured lights for Hate Crime Awareness Week.
Somerset Council is collaborating with Avon and Somerset Police and SARI to observe National Hate Crime Awareness Week from 10 to 17 October 2026, reinforcing a commitment to inclusivity.
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, which runs from 10 to 17 October. A joint statement has been published to reaffirm the shared commitment to making Somerset a safe, welcoming, and inclusive place for everyone.
Throughout the week, organisations across Somerset will collaborate to raise awareness of hate crime, encourage reporting, and offer support to individuals and communities affected by prejudice and discrimination.
As part of the campaign, County Hall in Taunton will be illuminated in a series of colours symbolising the word HOPE, highlighting different organisational and community responses to hate crime. The lighting schedule includes: 13 October for H (Hate Crime Awareness) in Green, 14 October for O (Operational Responses) in Red, 15 October for P (Preventing Hate Crime) in Blue, and 16 October for E (Engaging Communities) in Yellow.
This visible display aims to serve as a reminder that everyone has a role in recognising hate crime, supporting victims, and fostering inclusive communities. The campaign also addresses the issue of underreporting, as many incidents go unreported due to uncertainty about available support or reporting procedures.
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"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."
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"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."
Individuals experiencing or witnessing a hate crime are encouraged to report it to Avon and Somerset Police by calling 101, reporting online via their website, or by dialling 999 in an emergency. Reports can also be made in person at any police station.
Alternatively, reports can be submitted through the SARI website, an independent organisation providing support to victims of hate crime and hate incidents across the region. Support is available regardless of whether individuals choose to report directly to the police.
A hate crime is defined as any criminal offence motivated by hostility or prejudice based on a person’s race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or transgender identity. Hate incidents, even if not criminal offences, can still cause significant harm and should also be reported.
Based on information from the official source: Somerset Council (12/10/2026)
