Worcester City Council is being urged to formally support a national anti-racism campaign as new police data reveals a concerning rise in hate crimes across the West Midlands region.
Sharp Increase in Reported Incidents
Official figures from West Mercia Police show that 1,815 hate crimes were recorded in 2024/25, marking a significant 10% increase compared to the previous year. This represents the first rise in reported hate crimes in three years, raising alarm among community leaders and law enforcement.
Labour councillor Ed Kimberley is now pushing for the council to take decisive action. He has submitted a motion calling for the authority to "reaffirm a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of hate crime and discrimination" and to officially back the Hope Not Hate campaign.
Council Motion for Change
In his motion scheduled for debate at next week's full council meeting, Councillor Kimberley emphasised that "every resident has the right to live free from fear, prejudice, and discrimination." He argued that local government plays a crucial role in tackling hate crime and promoting community cohesion.
The councillor's proposal includes several concrete measures, including having the council sign and promote the Hope Not Hate pledge. This would involve encouraging councillors, council staff, and residents to stand together against various forms of discrimination, including racism, antisemitism, Islamophobia, homophobia, transphobia, and misogyny.
Building Community Resilience
Councillor Kimberley has also proposed establishing an annual 'Worcester – City of Hope' week, which would align with National Hate Crime Awareness Week. The initiative aims to highlight positive community projects and create safe spaces for dialogue among residents.
Superintendent Ed Hancox of West Mercia Police commented on the statistics, noting that while the increase appears concerning, it may also indicate growing confidence among victims to come forward. He stated: "Reporting such offences often requires considerable courage, particularly when the experience is rooted in personal identity, and those who have chosen to speak out deserve support."
The council debate comes at a critical time for community relations in Worcester, with leaders seeking to strengthen the city's reputation for diversity and inclusion while addressing the real concerns highlighted by the latest crime statistics.
