Monday, October 19, 2026
Businesses and employees across South Lancashire have been reminded that nobody should face abuse, intimidation or harassment simply for doing their job, as officers took part in a week of action to tackle hate crime in the workplace.
To mark Hate Crime Awareness Week (12th-18th October 2026), officers from across South Division, which covers the areas of Preston, Chorley, South Ribble and West Lancashire, visited hundreds of businesses as part of Op Hail, Lancashire Constabulary's countywide operation aimed at tackling hate crime in the workplace and supporting victims.
A hate crime is any criminal offence perceived to be motivated by hostility or prejudice based on a person's race, religion, sexual orientation, disability or transgender identity.
Throughout the week, officers visited 311 businesses to speak with staff about recognising hate crime, reporting incidents and accessing support.
The activity included visits to:
As well as engaging directly with employees, officers also spoke with business owners and managers about how they can support staff who experience hate crime and encourage reporting.
Victims can report incidents directly to police or through one of Lancashire's network of third-party reporting centres, of which there are 23 across South Division, which provide independent support and assistance with making a report.
Thanks to funding from the Lancashire Partnership Against Crime (LANPAC), officers also distributed posters, window stickers and leaflets carrying the message that hate is not part of the job, helping businesses show their support for employees and customers alike.
Inspector Jon Cisco, from South Division's Prevention Team, said: "Everyone has the right to go to work without fear of being abused, threatened or targeted because of who they are.
"Sadly, we know that hate crime can have a significant impact on victims, affecting not only their confidence at work but also their wellbeing away from the workplace."
"Through Operation Hail, we want to speak directly with businesses and their staff, raise awareness of what hate crime looks like and ensure people know where they can turn for support.
"Whether you work in a shop, a pub, a healthcare setting or behind the wheel of a taxi, hate is never part of the job."
"We take all reports of hate crime seriously and would encourage anyone who experiences or witnesses it to come forward.
"By reporting incidents, we can take action against offenders, support victims and send a clear message that hate has no place in our communities."
Anyone wishing to report a hate crime or learn more about the support available can visit: How to report hate crime | Lancashire Constabulary