UK charity Changing Faces shared their latest research looking at the experiences of people with a visible difference. The research focused on the fact that they’ve seen an increase in the number of people with a visible difference sharing that they have experienced a hate crime, and that more people than ever have experienced hostile behaviours like staring and rude comments because of their appearance.

The research found that nearly a quarter (23%) of people experienced a hate crime but didn’t report it. When asked about the barriers to reporting, nearly a quarter (23%) said that they didn’t think they would be taken seriously, whilst more than one in ten (12%) say experiencing a hate crime is just part of life with a visible difference.

You can read the full news story on the Changing Faces website here, and view their updated campaign page here.

Changing Faces are encouraging campaigners and anyone affected by these kinds of behaviours to write to the Police and Crime Commissioners in their area – “we know we can’t tackle this worrying trend alone, and it’s clear from the research that more needs to be done to reassure people they will be taken seriously should they choose to report.”

The charity’s ambassador Adam Pearson took to social media to reassure anyone with a visible difference who experiences hate and hostility that they aren’t alone and the work has received some great news coverage so far, here’s one of the national pieces from this morning and a regional piece from one of their campaigners.

If you are affected by hate crime or hostile behaviours or worried about a loved one then please do reach out to our team who can talk to you and signpost you to wider support services.