Homophobia & Hate Crime

Being lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender is not a crime � hate crime is. No one should have to put up with being harassed, bullied, victimised, or verbally or physically abused because of their sexuality. We all have the right to live in peace and dignity at home, at work, at school, or in any public place. It is important that the police are informed of homophobic hate crime, even if it is reported anonymously. If you have experienced or witnessed a homophobic incident, you can complete our on-line Incident Report Form.

Men's Sexual Health's work with Wiltshire Constabulary is described in the section working together with the police. To help police the local gay community sensitively, Wiltshire Constabulary employs specially trained Gay Liaison Officers and runs a Gay Policing Initiative. It has also adopted the True Vision initiative, which aims to provide information and encourage reporting of homophobic hate crime and same-sex domestic violence (True Vision information packs are available from local gay venues and Men's Sexual Health).

If you would like to know more about how Wiltshire Constabulary polices sexual behaviour in public places, see their Public Sex Environment Policy.

Worried about yourself or someone you know at school? See our section on homophobic bullying in schools.

If you, or somebody you know, have been sexually assaulted in the Wiltshire and Swindon area and need help and advice, The New Swindon Sanctuary SARC can help. For more information, see our sexual assault page.