A new Third Party Reporting Centre has opened in Basingstoke as officers continue to work with the community to tackle hate crime in the district.

The centre opened at Carnival Hall on Council Road earlier this month to become the fifth one in the district.

Basingstoke Town Inspector Charlie Ilderton met with Carnival Hall Chair, Mr Prashant Shirode, to provide support ahead of the centre opening.

Third Party Reporting Centres (TPRCs) support victims to report experiences of hate crime without having to contact the police directly.

A hate crime is any criminal offence, which is perceived by the victim or any other person, to be motivated by hostility or prejudice, based on a person's:

Race or perceived race, religion or perceived religion, sexual orientation or perceived sexual orientation, disability or perceived disability, or because a person is transgender or perceived to be transgender.

TPRCs allow victims to report anonymously; provide as much detail as they feel comfortable; choose where, when and how they wish to be contacted; and decide whether to give their personal details to the police.

Witnesses and third parties can also report through TPRCs, and reporting can be done using the online form or a physical form.

Insp Ilderton said: “I am delighted that Carnival Hall has partnered with the police to open a new Third Party Reporting Centre. This initiative highlights our commitment to work closely with the community in tackling hate crime in Basingstoke.

“The centre will provide victims with a safe and supportive environment to report crimes and receive assistance. It will enable better support for victims, improve confidence in reporting, raise awareness of hate crimes and encourage more people to come forward.

“We are grateful to the volunteers involved and the commitment to create a safer and more inclusive environment for everyone.”

Mr Shirode added: “We are proud to launch the new Third Party Reporting Centre at Carnival Hall. This initiative reflects our commitment to creating a safer, inclusive community where everyone feels heard and supported.

“By providing a trusted, local space for people to report hate crimes, we hope to support victims, raise awareness, and work collaboratively to challenge discrimination in all its forms.”