Wolverhampton City Council is marking Hate Crime Awareness Week with a series of events and information sessions across the city from Saturday 10 October to Friday 16 October 2026.

Hate crime is defined as any criminal offence against a person or property motivated by hatred based on race, colour, ethnic origin, nationality, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, or disability. It includes physical attacks, assault, property damage, offensive graffiti, arson, verbal abuse, threats, and offensive communications sent by letter, email, text, telephone, or malicious complaint.

Where and When to Find Council Staff

The City of Wolverhampton Council's Cohesion Team will be at West Park parkrun on Saturday 10 October from 10am, sharing information with runners.

Information and resources will be distributed in the city centre on Monday 12 October and Thursday 15 October.

A dedicated awareness event will run at the Mander Centre from 10am to 3pm on Tuesday 13 October. Partners including The Railway Children, Hope Community Project, and Aspiring Futures will be present to help people recognise and report hate crime.

Activities will also take place at the University of Wolverhampton and The Way Youth Zone on Wednesday 14 October, with a further information session at The Hub at Ashmore Park on Friday 16 October at 1pm.

Why the Council is Taking Action

Councillor Obaida Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, said: "The council and its partners take hate crime incredibly seriously, and all reports will be fully investigated by police.

"We'll be using Hate Crime Awareness Week to get people thinking about how to recognise hate crime if they witness or are victims to it.

"Most importantly, we'll be encouraging people to report instances of hate crime, which will enable victims to get the support they need and to ensure those committing it are met with justice."

Councillor Ahmed added: "If you see any of our activities taking place during the week, please come along, say hello and help us spread the message that hate has no place in Wolverhampton. Whether it's having a conversation, writing a pledge or sharing information with others, every action helps build a more welcoming and inclusive city."

How to Get Support and Report Hate Crime

More information about hate crime is available on StopHateWV.

People can report incidents of hate crime to local police or contact the council through the channels listed on the National Hate Crime Awareness Week website.