A NEW App has been launched to make the process of reporting hate crimes in Bradford easier. 

The web-based app, Listen Bradford, has been launched by the Bradford Hate Crime Alliance (BHCA), in conjunction with the University of Bradford. 

The app was announced during Hate Crime Awareness Week last October. After months of work, the app is officially ready for use. 

Frazer Ormondroyd, Hate Crime Coordinator at BHCA, said: “We know that hate crimes are underreported, so by creating this app, we hope that more people will report it and we can get a clearer picture of the number of and types of hate crime in Bradford. 

“This is a web app, which doesn’t store personal data and therefore can protect anonymity which can be a vital concern for people who come forward and report hate crime.

“We want the people of Bradford to be upstanders rather than bystanders, by reporting this type of crime when they witness it. 

“We’re really stressing the need here for people to report hate crimes, as we know between 60 and 80 per cent of them can go unreported.”

Hate crime refers to crimes committed against a person or property because of hostility or prejudice towards that person’s: disability, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation, and transgender identity

BHCA is working with Bradford City Council, West Yorkshire Police, Restorative Justice West Yorkshire, and Victim Support to deal with the issue of hate crime in Bradford. 

Now the app has been created and tested, BHCA is urging residents to download the app and begin reporting. 

There are over 25 reporting centres and pathways in Bradford already, where reports can be made, and support provided to victims.

“We know it will take a while to get going, but we want as many people as possible to use it so we can see what’s going on in Bradford and get an accurate representation of hate crime.”

Listen Bradford is for reporting hate crime that takes place all through the Bradford district to gauge a better picture and understanding.

“We think this app is going to have a really positive impact, because it’s convenient and simple to use. 

“It’s a 21st century tool made for people who live much of their lives through their phones.”

The app can be downloaded via scanning the QR code or clicking the link Listen to Bradford – Stop Hate Crime and you will be prompted to add the app to your home screen.

You can still contact BHCA via telephone on 0800 169 1664, or email: information@bradfordhatecrimealliance.org.uk