October 14, 2026 - 145 views
More than 100 community leaders, police representatives and support organisations have come together in Llandudno Junction to discuss how to tackle hate crime and improve support for victims across North Wales.
The conference, held yesterday (Tuesday, 13 October) at Conwy Business Centre, focused on encouraging people to report hate crime, challenging prejudice and building stronger, more resilient communities.
Organised by North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Andy Dunbobbin to mark National Hate Crime Awareness Week, the event brought together public services, voluntary organisations and community representatives to share experiences and discuss practical ways to make the region safer.
Deputy First Minister of Wales Sioned Williams addressed the conference by video, stressing the importance of removing barriers that can prevent people from reporting hate crime.
She also called for bystanders to feel confident about supporting victims and said a responsive criminal justice system was essential to maintaining public trust.
Attendees heard first-hand accounts from people affected by hate, alongside updates from specialists working to support victims, improve community cohesion and tackle racism and discrimination.
Contributions came from the Wales Hate Support Centre, North Wales Police, community cohesion teams, anti-racism advisers and the Crown Prosecution Service. Senior Crown Prosecutor for Wales Ryan Colamazza outlined how hate crime offences are prosecuted.
Mr Dunbobbin said everyone should be able to feel safe and respected, regardless of their race, religion, disability, sexual orientation or transgender identity.
He urged anyone who experiences or witnesses a hate crime to report it, adding that cooperation between police, partner organisations and local communities was vital in challenging prejudice and supporting those affected.
The conference also provided the setting for the recording of the third episode of the Police and Crime Commissioner's podcast, North Wales Matters with Andy Dunbobbin, which explores issues affecting communities across the region.
National Hate Crime Awareness Week runs until 17 October, with organisations across the UK being encouraged to work together to prevent hate crime and improve support for victims.
