Help Police increase understanding of crimes in LGB&T communities during Hampshire Pride weekend

Hampshire Constabulary is asking more members of the public to help the police force increase its understanding of the issues affecting local diverse communities. Lesbian and Gay  Liaison Officers (LAGLOs) are attending the Hampshire Pride event in Winchester tomorrow (Saturday, February 27, 2016)  during LGB&T History Month (February 2016). Sergeant Kirsten Troman from Hampshire Constabulary’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGB&T) Resource Group said: “It’s important to know you can speak to any police officer or member of police staff if you’ve been the victim of crime because of your sexual orientation or gender identity. “Hampshire Constabulary reinforces its approach with LAGLOs, all of whom have specific skills alongside extra experience and training to manage issues with our LGB&T communities. “One challenge is the under-reporting of hate crime and incidents, which must be addressed through ever-increasing awareness and mutual understanding between the public and the police. “We want to make sure any victim receives the right support based on an accurate insight into the causes of such crimes, ensuring offenders can be brought to justice. “Our largest ever survey of hate crime, domestic violence and sexual assault incidents with LGB&T communities is continuing. “We would ask people to take some time to read and complete the survey, the findings of which will further guide the respect, integrity and fairness that underpins our service to victims and witnesses of homophobic, biphobic and transphobic abuse.” Please click on the link below https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FJGR2GS Officers are attending Hampshire Pride in a police Ford Focus carrying the existing artwork of Hampshire Constabulary’s established Lesbian and Gay Liaison Officers (LAGLO) officers. The vehicle, supported by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC), visits a wide range of events to raise awareness of how to report homophobic, biphobic and transphobic hate crime incidents and other issues affecting LGB&T communities. What are homophobic, biphobic and transphobic crimes and incidents? A homophobic, biphobic or transphobic incident is any incident which is perceived to be homophobic, biphobic or transphobic by the victim or anyone else. They can include abusive or threatening language for example on the streets, in sports grounds, at work or in private. You don’t have to be lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender to be the victim of a homophobic, biphobic or transphobic crime: it’s how the crime is perceived by the victim or anyone else that determines the nature of the offence. [tubentertain vid=”H9iKHX2a_QU ” autoplay=”0″] Speak to  the Police in confidence You can report information to us about hate crimes or incidents without having to disclose your sexual orientation or gender identity. You can always speak to the police in confidence or, if you prefer not to speak with us directly, you can always report it to a friend or someone else. If you’re reporting a crime or providing information, we’ll do everything necessary to protect your identity. If you still wish to remain anonymous, we will respect your request. Phone 101 if it’s not urgent. Mini-com users can phone 18001 101. In an emergency, always dial 999. Information can be given anonymously by phoning the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.