A CENTRE dedicated to helping victims of hate crime reporting has received over 700 referrals in its first seven months.

The National Hate Crime Report and Support Centre was set up with £488,000 funding from the Welsh Government provided as part of its action to tackle hate crime.

The centre is run by staff and volunteers at Victim Support Wales, who enable people to report hate crimes and receive the support they need.

Today, Communities and Tackling Poverty Minister, Lesley Griffiths visited the centre in Cardiff to see first hand the centre at work.

The minister said: “The new reporting centre ensures victims, their families and witnesses across the country are able to receive the advice and support they need. I’m pleased the project is progressing well since its launch in May, having already taken over 700 referrals. While it is encouraging more people than ever are coming forward to report, these figures clearly show hate crime is very real problem in our society which needs to be addressed head on.

“I would like to thank the staff and volunteers at Victim Support Cymru for their dedication to assisting people who turn to them for help. The integrated and comprehensive support service they provide is helping victims feel safe and overcome the challenges they face.”

Mandy Wilmot, Divisional Manager Wales, Victim Support said: “Hate Crime and Incidents are still under-reported, but through our continued engagement and collaborative approach to this agenda with communities and organisations, we have been able to pave the way for a clear and simple process for receiving support and understanding when someone has been a victim of hate.

Victims of hate crime can contact the Victim Support Helpline on 0300 30 31 982 or by visiting www.reporthate.victimsupport.org.uk