Respect at York: tackling hate crime

Posted on Wednesday 1 October 2025

The aims of Hate Crime Awareness Week, to create a safe place for all, without hate, align with our own Respect at York campaign. We are clear that hate has no place in our University community and we will support anyone who is affected by it.

On 14 October between 11am-3pm, members of staff from key teams, including our Conduct and Respect team and Campus Safety, will be in the Library ready to hand out free Respect at York items and provide information about how we’re tackling hate crime.

What is a hate crime?

Hate crime includes physical attacks, verbal abuse, threatening behaviour or criminal damage that targets because of their race, faith, gender, disability or sexual orientation. It can happen in person or online.

What if I experience or witness a hate crime?

If an incident is in progress and anyone is at risk, alert Campus Safety by using the SafeZone app or calling +44 (0)1904 32 3333, or alert the police by calling 999.

We encourage you to always report hate crimes or incidents if you witness or experience them, even after they take place: 

• Our Report + Support tool allows you to report an incident to the University. You can do so anonymously or with your contact details.
• If you do include your contact details, an appropriate member of staff will get in touch to discuss what you would like to happen next and discuss the support available for you.
• You can also choose to report a crime to the police - the non-emergency number is 101.

If you witness an incident, you can intervene if it feels safe to do so. Otherwise, alert Campus Safety or the police. Intervening can mean moving to sit or stand with someone experiencing verbal abuse or making those involved aware that you’re contacting help. If possible, give your contact details to Campus Safety so that you can provide a witness statement if necessary.

Educating ourselves

Everyone in our community has the opportunity to learn more about tackling hate crime. 

All students are asked to complete our online Being An Active Bystander training to support you in understanding how to intervene safely. Staff and students can refer to our Active Bystander guide. 

Find more advice and information about relevant training modules in our recently issued race equality guidance.

Sources of support

• The Student Support Team, based in the Student Hub, can help students with practical matters of concern, or signpost to other services.
• York SU also provides support services and advice.

• Staff have access to an advice line and a range of free resources if you need help, as part of our Employee Assistance scheme. Depending on the nature of your call, you will be put through to either a qualified counsellor or a legal advisor.