Mate Crime

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Conference
2018 National Disabled Members' Conference
Date
6 July 2018
Decision
Carried as Amended

Conference we have heard about hate crimes, however mate crime is not as widely publicised or known about. Mate crimes are usually committed against another for the purpose of some individual gain. Usually financial gain. It is well known that most people with disabilities have a greater level of vulnerability and where they are also women, Black or lesbian, gay bisexual or transgender (LGBT) they may be further targeted. Perpetrators will attach themselves under the guise of befriending them in order to exploit them.

Their properties are used to throw parties, grow illegal drugs, have parcels delivered to their address.

Perpetrators visit these people on paydays in order to elicit monies from them, then not visit again until the next pay day.

Where disabled people are also LGBT they may be less likely to report mate crime as their abusers may threaten to ‘out’ them to friends, family, work colleagues or support agencies.

Ask National Disabled Members Committee to:

1. Highlight mate crime as an issue for our members, their friends and families.

2. Write a leaflet for distribution on mate crime, including instructions on how to report mate crime to the police in accessible ways and details of support agencies.

3. Encourage Regions and branches to deliver workshops/lunch and learn events on mate crime.

4. Work with other SOGS to raise awareness, distribute literature and provide training for regions, branches and stewards.

5. Campaign for the roll out of police link officers for Deaf people to encourage reporting.