Stop Hate helpline set up in Lewisham
A 24-hour Stop Hate Line helpline has been set up in Lewisham.
The service has been entirely funded by donations to the 25-year-old charity Stop Hate UK as a ‘lifetime gift’ to the borough, from the charity.
Stop Hate UK London has also announced it will open its first office, based at The Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust in Lewisham.
Cllr Brenda Dacres, Lewisham’s cabinet member for safer communities, said: “On the 25th anniversary of Stop Hate UK, it is an honour for Lewisham to be the home of the helpline.
“In Lewisham, we are proud of our diversity and we stand shoulder to shoulder against all forms of hate crimes.
“Stop Hate UK has provided invaluable services, supporting and assisting victims of all forms of discrimination and hate crimes.
“We are also delighted to be able to work even closer with the Stop Hate UK Team and Baroness Lawrence.”
The Met’s Tara Duffy, hate crime coordinator and faith liaison officer, said: “We are delighted that the Stop Hate UK helpline has been launched in Lewisham, on this the charity’s 25th anniversary.
“I am pleased that the residents of Lewisham will a have access to a service that will listen, provide advice and support, and help to explore what to do next.”
Pictured top: Lewisham Civic Centre