Commissioner Clive Grunshaw went out in Chorley town centre as part of Op Hail, which sees police and employers working together to support victims of hate crime in the workplace.

He joined as they visited business premises to talk to employees about Op Hail, ensure they understand what constitutes a hate crime and how they can report, share evidence and seek support.

Alongside local PCSOs, they visited a selection of the types of businesses supported through Op Hail such as takeaways, retailers and pubs.

Outreach work also sees officers speak to employers about how they can support staff who have been a victim of hate crime.

Launched in 2024, the operation is working to ensure that hate crime is identified and that hate should never be part of the job.

National Hate Crime Awareness Week is a week of action that takes place in the UK to encourage authorities, key partners in the business and voluntary sectors, and communities affected by hate crime to work together to tackle local hate crime across the UK.

Clive Grunshaw, Police and Crime Commissioner for Lancashire said: “It was great to see Operation Hail in action, gaining a deeper insight into the community engagement that always needs to be at the heart of tackling crime, with hate crime being no exception.

“Hate crime is completely unacceptable, and we will not tolerate it here in Lancashire. These crimes create division and cause lasting harm to individuals, their families and friends, and entire communities.

“All too often, we see the tragic consequences that hate crime has. I continue backing Lancashire Police to tackle those responsible for these offences and send a clear message that harassment and bigotry in any form, targeting any group, have no place here.

“It’s important that anyone affected can get the support they need, regardless of whether they have reported their experience to the police, so they can move forward with their lives. Victim Care Lancashire, which I fund alongside a range of support for victims of crime, is there to help.”

Prevention Inspector Jon Cisco said: “Hate crime has no place in any workplace. Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected when they come to work, regardless of their race, religion, disability, sexual orientation or transgender identity.

“Through Operation Hail, we are encouraging people to speak up, supporting those who experience hate, and making it clear that this behaviour will not be tolerated. By working together to challenge prejudice and promote inclusion, we can help create workplaces where everyone feels able to be themselves and thrive.”