Challenge (Before)
A young asylum seeker from Palestine attended a DPIA forum session featuring a Hate Crime Officer from South Wales Police after previously experiencing an incident that had left him feeling distressed and unsafe. The attendee shared that he had experienced verbal abuse in public which he believed may have been linked to his ethnicity and background. However, at the time, he was unsure whether what happened would be considered a hate crime or whether it was something “serious enough” to report. Having experienced difficult relationships with authorities in the past and being unfamiliar with policing systems in the UK, he felt worried that reporting the incident might not be taken seriously or could somehow negatively affect him as an asylum seeker. As a result, he had stayed silent and tried to move on, despite the incident continuing to affect his confidence and sense of safety.
Intervention (Action)
The attendee participated in a DPIA forum session where a Hate Crime Officer from South Wales Police spoke about what hate crime is, how incidents can be reported, what support is available, and the rights of people living in Wales regardless of immigration status. During the session, the attendee listened closely and engaged with the discussion. Hearing directly from a police officer helped challenge fears and misconceptions around reporting. Following the forum, the attendee spoke further about his experience and shared that, for the first time, he felt safer seeking help. DPIA staff supported him by putting him directly in touch with the Hate Crime Officer who had attended the session and helped him through the reporting process. Recognising the emotional impact the incident had also had on him, DPIA additionally connected the attendee with Victim Support to ensure he could access further practical and emotional support.
Results (After)
- The attendee reported feeling more confident and reassured about seeking help when experiencing discrimination or hate incidents.
- He successfully reported the incident to police with support and felt listened to throughout the process.
- Through support from Victim Support, the attendee accessed additional emotional and practical assistance.
- The attendee shared that understanding his rights helped him feel safer and more confident living in Wales.
