A hate crime is an offence committed against a person or property motivated by the perpetrator's hostility and prejudice towards people because they're seen as being different. This includes crime based on:

• Race
• Disability
• Age
• Sexual orientation
• Faith
• Gender identity
• Culture
• Alternative lifestyles
• Sex

As a crime, it will be acted upon by the police when reported to them. It's also a crime against the community and the people who are part of it. It will be acted on by a number of organisations and agencies that work in partnership with the police to improve community safety on a range of matters and issues.

A hate incident is an offence that is not a crime, again committed against a person or property, and motivated by the perpetrator's hostility and prejudice towards people because they are seen as being different.

By working together organisations will try to meet their equality and diversity obligations, particularly in seeking to eliminate discrimination, harassment and victimisation. In addition, working together encourages social inclusion and promotes a resilient and caring society.