Transforming policy

Over the course of the last 15 years, the Centre for Hate Studies has sought to use research evidence to inform and transform local and national policy. One of the ways in which the Centre has influenced national policy is through the submission of expert evidence – either as witnesses or through written testimony – to All Party Parliamentary Groups, Home Affairs and House of Commons Select Committees. This evidenced has improved awareness amongst policy-makers of the problems associated with existing responses to victims and perpetrators, along with the potential solutions for these challenges. 

• All Party Parliament Group on British Muslims – Islamophobia Defined (PDF, 792kb)
• All Party Parliament Group on Hate Crime – How do we build community cohesion when hate crime is on the rise? (PDF, 3,591kb)
• Home Affairs Committee – Hate Crime and its Violent Consequences  
• House of Commons Women and Equalities Committee – Transgender Equality (PDF, 822kb)

Research by the CHS was cited throughout the Home Office’s thematic review of current evidence, which was produced in order to advance the UK Government’s understanding of hate crime. In addition, the Home Office’s 2016 report ‘Action Against Hate’, which outlines the UK Government’s plan for tackling hate crime refers to our research evidence. 

CHS research has been used to inform recommendations from the Commission for Countering Extremism in relation to a new definition which focuses on the concept of 'hateful extremism'. It has also helped to generate new strategies and improved responses in relation to disability hate crime on public transport.