Non-crime hate incidents in schools

In June 2023, the Home Office introduced a new ruling, that any non-crime incidents involving school-aged children, where the incident occurs on school premises, should be referred to the school’s management team to assess the risk and decide on a proportionate response.

Hertfordshire Constabulary have therefore produced a new referral process and guidance, for primary and secondary schools in Hertfordshire. This will enable a clearer understanding of emerging themes and causes of concerns in different areas, where support may be required. The form will only be used by the Police. The desired outcome is for school employees and pupils, to have an improved knowledge of hate crime, how to address it and where to signpost if necessary. The main objective is prevention and education.

At the end of each term, schools will be asked to complete a short form which is sent to them, regarding how many non-crime incidents have occurred on site and if there were any particular themes.

Hertfordshire Constabulary have also provided the following documentation to help with awareness and education within school:

• a PowerPoint presentation explaining hate crime and non-hate crime incidents.
• a teaching resource pack for primary and secondary pupils 
• poster to be displayed in staff rooms. The QR code provides a short training video.
• accompanying notes explaining the background of Hate crime incidents.