Hate and Discrimination
This page contains detailed information about sexual violence, domestic abuse, so called “honour-based abuse”, forced marriage, female genital mutilation, hate crime, discrimination, bullying, harassment, stalking, spiking and terrorism. The content may be distressing or harmful to audiences.
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If you are affected by any of the information and would like support, please contact studentservices@chester.ac.uk or call 01244 511 550.
Hate
Hate incidents and hate crimes are acts of prejudice, hostility or violence directed at people because of who they are, or who they are perceived to be. These acts are motivated by prejudice based on a person’s race, religion, sexual orientation, disability or transgender identity.
The victim does not need to actually be a member of the group the prejudice is aimed at. For example, you could be called a homophobic slur regardless of whether you identify as LGBTQ+.
If the behaviour meets the criminal threshold, it is considered a hate crime, whereas if it does not meet this threshold, it is considered a hate incident. You can report both hate incidents and hate crimes to the police and access support.
Discrimination
Discrimination means treating a person unfairly because of who they are, or the protected characteristics they possess. The Equality Act 2010 highlight 9 protected characteristic: age, gender, race, disability, religion, pregnancy & maternity, sexual orientation, gender reassignment and marriage & civil partnership.
Discrimination that occurs because of one or more of these characteristics is unlawful.
How to report?
You can read more about how to report an incident of hate or discrimination to the University or the police with your contact details.
You can read more about how to report an incident of hate or discrimination to the University or the police anonymously HERE. Please note, if you provide any identifiable details in your report, the police may be able to identify who you are.
How to get support?
University Support
The Wellbeing and Mental Health team can provide confidential advice and support for you and other students who may have been affected by hate & discrimination. You can make contact by emailing: studentservices@chester.ac.uk
Student Counselling is a free counselling service available for all students that provides a confidential, safe space for you to talk. You can make a self-referral by emailing: Student.counselling@chester.ac.uk
External Support
Your General Practitioner (GP/doctor) will be able to talk through support options available to you such as counselling and any health concerns you may have.
Cheshire CARES (Cope and Recovery Enhanced Service) is a dedicated service providing free support to all victims of crime in Cheshire, including victims of hate crime. They are open Monday-Friday, 8.00am-8.00pm, and Saturday & Sunday, 9.00am-4.00pm. You can contact them by telephone: 01606 366336 or email: Cheshire.cares@cheshire.police.uk
Victim support is a national charity that provides free and confidential support 24/7, 365 days a year for people affected by crime and traumatic events – regardless of whether it has been reported to the police. Visit their website for information on how to access support.