Making sure that sufferers of racial harassment are aware of
the support that is available to them.
We are committed to respecting the racial and cultural diversity
of Suffolk's local communities. We recognise that people may be
discriminated against because of their race, colour, ethnicity or
nationality.
What is a racist incident?
A racist incident is "any incident which is perceived to be
racist by the victim or any other person" - The Stephen Lawrence
report (1999). The incident may be motivated by racial prejudice
and includes verbal abuse, threats and even physical violence.
Have you been harassed, threatened or attacked?
If you have been harassed, threatened or attacked you may feel
upset, anxious, confused, angry or a mixture of these emotions. You
might have lost your confidence, feel guilty or become
depressed.
Where can I report a racist incident?
It is vitally important that you report any racist incident. You
can either report it directly to the Racial Harassment Initiative
team, the police or to a third party reporting centre such as
Citizens
Advice Bureau.
You can also report an incident on our free 24-hour automated
service: 0800 138 1643.
You can leave a message in:
- Arabic
- Bengali
- Chinese
- Engish
- Farsi
- French
- Kurdish
- Portuguese
- Turkish
What happens when I report a racist incident?
When we receive a report of a racist incident, either directly
or via the police, we will:
- aim to make contact within 48 hours; and
- write to you within 24 hours.
We will discuss what help and support you may need following the
incident. This can include:
- encouraging other agencies to help;
- helping to resolve any racial harassment your child is
experiencing at school;
- offering free counselling;
- personal safety advice;
- providing mediation if you have been involved in a dispute with
your neighbour;
- securing premises with the necessary security measures;
- working with victims and their
families.