United Kingdom
fighting antigay hate crimes

The Home Office in the United Kingdom is encouraging those who have fallen victim to homophobic hate crimes to report them immediately, according to the BBC.

The organization reported that the Home Office will increase policing to combat hate crimes and that it is interested in keeping gays, lesbians, bisexuals, and transsexuals safe. A guide that the office has newly published also recommends increasing public confidence in the system and expediting the criminal justice system's response.

According to a report released by the Home Office, more than 1,000 incidents involving homophobia occurred in London in 2005. However, it is possible that up to 90% of hate crimes are not reported. The article cites a program developed by the Lancashire Police, which has set up the Blue Phone, a help line that people can turn to after witnessing or being involved in a hate crime. (The Advocate)