To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on the work of the Hate Crime Advocacy Service.

ORAL QUESTION No 9 - AQO 2364/22-27

ANSWER

The Hate Crime Advocacy Service (HCAS) is jointly funded by my Department and the PSNI to assist reporting of hate incidents to the police and provide support to victims throughout the investigative / criminal justice system process. It is delivered through an independent partnership coordinated by Victim Support NI and includes Hate Crime Advocates that are employed by the Migrant Centre NI, Disability Action and The Rainbow Project.

The current contract was extended to a fourth year in April and officials are working on a further extension into a fifth year.

HCAS received 1369 referrals in 2024/25, a 26% increase on the previous year and the highest number recorded by the service since it was established. This upwards trend has continued into 2025/26, in part driven by the abhorrent racist attacks in Ballymena and beyond in June.

HCAS will be hosting an event called “Don’t Hate, Debate” as part of their proactive awareness raising for National Hate Crime Awareness Week which runs from 18th – 25th October. I would encourage members to attend any of the National Hate Crime Awareness Week events taking place.

While it is disappointing that our society requires this service, it is encouraging to see victims of hate crime seeking and receiving this vital support at a critical time.

My Department is committed to playing its part in delivering a safer community for all, including victims of hate crimes, and in partnership with others in Government and beyond.