We at Intercom welcome the landmark step this week in improving access to criminal justice for LGBT+ and disabled victims of hate crime through the equalisation of hate crime law.

This change will mean that anti-LGBT+ hate crime will now be considered an ‘aggravated offence’. When a crime is considered an ‘aggravated offence’, it means that it was committed under circumstances which increase the seriousness of the offence in the eyes of the courts, the victim has longer to access justice and the perpetrator will get a stronger sentence. This a significant step in ensuring LGBT+ victims gain equal access to justice that they deserve.

We will continue to support victims of hate crime through our services across Devon & Cornwall, and to support victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence through our Safer Rainbow Project.

For more information about our services, call or email our Helpline on 0800 612 3010 (Monday-Friday 9am-4pm) or email via helpline@intercomtrust.org.uk.