Tenants Afraid To Report Hate Crimes And Anti-Social Behaviour, Councillors Warn

Brighton and Hove councillors have raised concerns that people affected by hate crimes and anti-social behaviour are too scared to speak out, and some who do report issues feel dismissed.

The warning came during a debate over the council’s draft housing hate incident policy, required under the Social Housing Regulation Act 2023.

Hate crimes include discrimination based on race, religion, gender, disability, or sexuality, ranging from name-calling and offensive messages to threats, violence, or criminal damage.

Anusree Biswas Sasidharan, a co-opted committee member, highlighted the impact of last weekend’s arson attack on Peacehaven Mosque, saying fear now extends beyond the Muslim community to anyone “who looks different.”

She praised the policy’s “easy read” format, co-produced with disability advocacy charity Speak Out.

Councillors noted the council’s public consultation received only 57 responses from 13,000 tenants and leaseholders.

Conservative councillor Anne Meadows said this reflects fear and mistrust, with tenants reluctant to report issues for fear of being labelled a nuisance.

She cited Craven Vale resident Lee Catt, who was told he could only communicate through one dedicated email due to the volume of complaints.

Council housing director Harry Williams acknowledged hate crime is under-reported and said more work is needed to engage with community groups.

Labour councillor Jackie O’Quinn agreed, noting that policies are not always adhered to and many tenants “suffer in silence” rather than seeking help.