Street theatre to raise awareness of hate crime in Wychavon and Malvern Hills District

Actors will interact with members of the public using mime and chalkboards to explore the various types of hate crime and the impact it has on victims.

Another part of the performances will involve monologues based on real life stories from people in the local area who have experienced hate crime and members of the public will then be encouraged to offer advice.

Finally, performers will be asking ‘Where can I report a hate crime?’ as a way of raising awareness about the different reporting methods available.

Cllr Gerry O’Donnell, executive board member with responsibility for community safety on Wychavon District Council, said: “Hate crime has a severe impact on the quality of life of those who are victims of it.

“No civilised society can continue to stay silent about hate crime. It’s imperative we work together to tackle it and stamp it out.”

Kevin Purcell, South Worcestershire superintendent for West Mercia Police, said: “Nobody should have to tolerate hate crime because of who they are or where they come from and so it is important our communities have the confidence to come to police and report hate crimes or incidents.

“Tackling hate crime is a priority for us and we will act and investigate all reports.”

Cllr Bronwen Behan, portfolio holder with responsibility for community safety on Malvern Hills District Council, said: “Being you is not a crime and we hope these street performances will help people understand more about hate crime and give them the confidence to speak out and report it.”

Performances take place at Malvern Hills Retail Park, off Roman Way, on Monday October 16 and Bridge Street in Evesham on Saturday October 21 between 10am and 2pm both days.

There were 55 reports of hate crime across Malvern Hills district in the last year and 85 in Wychavon.

However, the true level of hate crime in both areas is likely to be higher as offences are often not reported.