DEALING WITH VICTIMS OF RACIAL HARASSMENT

Annual Review
For the year ending 31.3.97

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Essex Police recognises the importance of eliminating racial harassment or discrimination, and we are committed to building good relations with different racial groups and agencies.

During the review year there was a 20% drop in the number of reported incidents (134) classed as racially motivated. In 78 of these cases the offenders were identified by the police, representing an improvement for the third year running. A total of 38 prosecution files were sent to the Crown Prosecution Service, compared with 26 during the previous review period.

A survey of victims during the review year showed 77% were satisfied, or more than satisfied, with the time it took police to arrive, and 85% were satisfied, or more than satisfied, with the attitude of officers.

Each of the ten area divisions which make up Essex Police has a racial incident liaison officer, whose details are sent to every victim of harassment or discrimination.

A representative from Essex Police's Community Safety department chairs the Racial Incident County Forum, which meets regularly and acts as a steering group for the seven Racial Incident Panels across Essex.

When this review was carried out, it was concluded that officers now appear to be more aware of the importance of dealing with victims of racial harassment and the benefits of taking positive action when an incident is reported.