What is Homophobic and Transphobic incident? “Any incident which is perceived to be homophobic or transphobic by the victim or by any other person.” This definition is used by the criminal justice agencies. Are you, or do you know people who are bullied, assaulted, harassed or verbally abused because you or they are lesbian, gay or bisexual? Yes! Then this is a homophobic incident!   Are you, or do you know people who are bullied, assaulted, harassed or verbally abused because you or they are transgendered, transvestite or intersex? Yes! Then this is a transphobic incident!

Homophobic and transphobic incident crimes are usually motivated by the offender’s ignorance, prejudice or fear. Such hate crimes can have a serious impact on the victim and their quality of life. The Reducing Hate Crime Case Group members are committed to stamping out all crime motivated by hate and prejudice.

If you have experienced hate crime and would like to discuss this and talk about your options to report it, anonymously if you wish to, there are three specific LGBT reporting centres in Middlesbrough:

Middlesbrough Voluntary Development Agency:

Lesley Duggan LGBT Inclusion Officer 01642 803607

ST. Marys Centre 82-90 Corporation Road, Middlesbrough, Cleveland TS1 2RW

MESMAC North East: 01642 804400

4th Floor,  Prudential House, 31-33 Albert Road,  Middlesbrough,  TS1 1PE

Citizens Advice Bureau (Middlesbrough): 0844 499 4110

3 Bolckow Street, Middlesbrough, TS1 1TH