Catherine Louise TurnerPolice Community Support Officers (PCSOs) have carried out targeted face-to-face outreach at a Seacroft church as part of a city-wide effort to tackle identity-based abuse and improve local reporting channels.
Officers from the Leeds East Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) visited the Forward in Faith Church in Seacroft during their Sunday afternoon service on 11th October. The visit coincided with National Hate Crime Awareness Week, an annual campaign aimed at supporting victims of hostility linked to race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or transgender identity.
During the engagement session, PCSOs Coe and Taylor met with members of the congregation to discuss safety concerns, distribute informational guidance leaflets, and highlight independent support networks. The initiative forms part of a broader localised push following the launch of the Leeds Hate Crime Strategy, which focuses on delivering visible reassurance directly within communities.
In addition to providing advice on how to report hate incidents safely, the officers used the interactive session to build relationships with younger residents. Children attending the service were invited to try on mini police uniforms and participate in safety-themed colouring activities.
A spokesperson for the Leeds East NPT stated that the face-to-face engagements are designed to make reporting mechanisms more accessible and build trust. Residents at the service were also encouraged to register via the West Yorkshire Community Alert system, a platform used by local police to distribute localised safety updates and direct crime prevention advice.
Local authorities continue to remind residents that reports can be made confidentially outside of direct police channels. Independent support and 24/7 advice are available through the Stop Hate UK Helpline at 0800 138 1625.
For digital submissions and guidance, victims and witnesses can use the West Yorkshire Police Hate Crime Portal or file a report through the national True Vision website. Designated Third-Party Hate Incident Reporting Centres, including the Compton Centre Community Hub in nearby Harehills, also offer trained staff and private facilities to assist anyone affected by harassment or discrimination.
Active Resource Links for the Article:
- Online Police Reporting Portal: West Yorkshire Police Hate Crime Portal
- National Reporting Platform: True Vision Website
- Regional Support Information: West Yorkshire Combined Authority Hate Hurts Campaign
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