Council supports the nationwide 'safety pin' campaign
The police and council in Merton have issued joint guidance for anyone who witnesses or experiences hate crime.
Since the UK voted to leave the EU, there have been no reported increases in hate crime or incidents in London. However the council and police remain highly aware that certain events can spur intolerance, hate or extremism.
A joint statement from Merton Council Leader Councillor Stephen Alambritis and Acting Borough Commander of Merton Police Steve Wallace read: “Merton has always been a place that embraces and celebrates diversity and we have always welcomed people from different countries and backgrounds.
“Since the EU Referendum result where the UK voted to leave the EU, there have been reported incidents of hate crime in some areas of London.
“We have zero tolerance of hate crime and would strongly encourage anyone who witnesses this type of behaviour or is a victim of it to report it to police or tell a trusted adult.”
There are lots of ways to report hate crime. If it is an emergency, dial 999, or call 101 if it is not an emergency. Visit a police station, visit the Tell Mama and CST websites, or use the MOPAC Hate Crime app.
The Metropolitan Police have more than 900 specially trained investigators who deal will hate crimes and help victims and witnesses through the investigation.
Merton Council is also supporting the safety pin campaign has become popular on social media. Twitter user @Cheeahs, an American woman living in London, started the initiative following the UK’s vote to leave the EU.
Members of staff and councillors in the Civic Centre in Morden have joined the thousands of people across the UK who have attached plain silver safety pins to their clothes today to show solidarity against racism, and let any potential victims know the wearer is friendly.
Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Engagement and Equalities, Councillor Edith Macauley said: “We live in a diverse society and we will not tolerate any kind of hate crime in our community.
“The safety pin is a simple and effective way to show solidarity with victims and spread a message of tolerance and togetherness.”
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July 2, 2016