Communities working together to tackle homophobic and transphobic harrassment in Suffolk

Homophobic and Transphobic Incidents
A Guide for Victims and Witnesses

What is a homophobic/transphobic incident?

"Any incident which is perceived to be homophobic or transphobic by the victim or any other person"

This is any act or behaviour motivated by prejudice or hatred towards lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgendered people.

This could include:-

• Assault
• Theft
• Harassment
• Criminal Damage
• Slogan Writing
• Robbery
• Abuse and name calling

Homophobic and transphobic incidents can, and often do, seriously affect people's lives.  We will do everything we can to support you.

Always report any homophobic or transphobic incideints - no matter how minor it may seem.

Who should report an incident?

Homophobic and transphobic incidents can be reported by ANY person, not just the victim.

How do I report an incident?

If you need immediate assistance - for instance the offender is still about or you are in danger - dial 999

However, if you do not need immediate assistance, please dial 01473 613500 or call in at your local police station.

If you do not want to report the incident directly to the police, you can also report it by:-

• Calling the Suffolk Gay and Lesbian Helpline on 0808 808 2322 (which can also provide confidential advice)

How can I help the police?

The officer who attends will need to find out exactly what has happened.

Whether you are the victim or a witness, make a note of the time, date, place and circumstances as soon as possible after the incident.

Obtain the names and addresses of any other witnesses.

You will need to explain everything in detail.  This account may include details of any previous incidents.

Investigation

Every incident where there is a homophobic or transphobic motive will be treated seriously and all details relating to the incident will be recorded by police.

The police officer will gather all the availble evidence during the investigation, which may include taking a statement from you and speaking to any other witnesses or suspects.

If someone is arrested, they will be taken to a police station and interviewed about the incident.

You will be kept informed about what action is taken during the investigation, including being told the reason if no further action is possible.

We will offer you support and advice throughout the investigation.

Prosecution Process

If someone has been arrested, and the investigation is complete, all the information and evidence is pulled together in a file the police submit to the Crown Prosecution Service.

The Crown Prosecution Service, independent of the police, is responsible for making final decisions about whether or not to prosecute the suspect(s).

It may not be possible to prosecute some cases due to lack of supporting evidence.

Policy Statment

We believe everyone has the right to feel safe wherever they are; at home, in public places, at a school or at work.

Suffolk Constabulary has a duty to act in a professional manner in respect of all criminal matters.

Dealing effectively with homophobic and transphobic incidents is a high priority for police in Suffolk.

Suffolk Constabulary is committed to ensuring that no member of the public will receive less favourable treatment or service on the grounds of nationality, race, national orgins, skin colour, gender, sexuality or disability.

Suffolk Constabulary is an active member of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Police Link Group in Suffolk.  For further information about the group please contact the Diversity Officer on 01473 613744.

You are not alone.

Below are other agencies that may be able to offer help, advice and support.

Suffolk Gay & Lesbian Helpline
0808 808 2322
0845 123 2388 (24hrs)

Citizens Advice Bureau
Ipswich 01473 219777
Bury St Edmunds 01284 753675
Lowestoft 01502 565875

Victim Support
Bury St Edmunds 01284 774007
Ipswich 01473 782782
Lowestoft 01986 835170

Victim Supportline 0845 30 30 900

Suffolk Transgender (TG) Group 07789778373

Victim Care Centres
Bury St Edmunds 01284 774007
Ipswich 01473 782782
Lowestoft 01986 835170

Outreach - Young LGBT Group