Due to a rise in the number of recent homophobic hate crimes in Greenwich, the council is urging more people to come forward and report it.

Hate crimes target a person’s sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, race, religion, or any other perceived difference.

These crimes can range from verbal or physical abuse to harassment and are completely unacceptable.

No one should have to deal with hate crime and Greenwich council takes such incidents very seriously.

Cllr Jackie Smith said: "Greenwich council is continuing its work with partners like the Met Police and LGBTQ+ charities METRO and Galop to tackle hate crime, raise awareness, help victims receive the support they need, provide personal safety advice and encourage people to report any incidents.”

READ MORE: Police appeal for information after homophobic attack in Blackheath

To report a hate crime in an emergency always call the police on 999.

During a non-emergency you can also report to the police by calling 101 or visiting any police station.

Stop Hate UK provide a free 24-hour helpline, 365 days a year. You can contact Stop Hate UK on 0800 138 1625 or

CLICK HERE.

The Greenwich Inclusion Project works to ensure people receive the support they need after experiencing a hate crime, you can contact them on 020 3747 9862 or

CLICK HERE.

You can also access free and confidential support specifically for LGBT hate crime with METRO, by emailing safer@metrocharity.org.uk or calling 020 8305 5003.