DISABILITY hate crimes have risen in West Yorkshire, worrying figures have revealed.

The data was released through a Freedom of Information (FOI) request to West Yorkshire Police.

In 2020/21, a total of 941 crimes were recorded, but this rose to 1,120 in 2021/22.

Of the 941 crimes in 2020/21, 489 were crimes classified as violence against the person, while 615 of the 1,120 in 2021/22 were of this type.

Perpetrators were often not brought to justice due to evidential difficulties.

West Yorkshire Police said increases in hate crime are predominantly associated with administrative changes in crime recording processes, while there’s also better awareness around reporting incidents.

A spokesperson said: “The force has made improvements to how information about hate incidents is recorded.

“A number of sub-categories for the recording of faith and disability hate crimes have been introduced to get a better understanding of the impact of national and international events on local communities and improve and target services for victims.

“West Yorkshire Police support the annual Hate Crime Awareness Week in partnership with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority in order to highlight the issue of hate crime.”

Hate crime co-ordinators are also employed across the five West Yorkshire districts.

Want to keep up with all the latest court and crime news? Join our Bradford Crime & Breaking News Facebook group

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up with all the latest news.

Have you got a story for us? Email newsdesk@telegraphandargus.co.uk or contact us here, WhatsApp us on 07720 403052 or call us on 01274 705292.