Bovey Tracey children take a stand against hate crime

Primary school students in Bovey Tracey are making a difference in their community by partnering with Devon and Cornwall Police to tackle hate crime.

Year 6 pupils, aged 10 and 11, from Bovey Tracey Academy participated in an educational initiative aimed at raising awareness about hate crime and its impact on individuals and communities. 

The project culminated in the creation of colorful, hand-drawn posters to spread awareness about the issue and encourage reporting.

The police say hate crime, as defined by law, includes any criminal offense perceived to be motivated by hostility or prejudice against characteristics such as disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, or transgender identity.

Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) Paul Wilson spearheaded the project, leading interactive sessions to help the children understand the harmful effects of hate crime. During his recent visit to the school with Inspector Sean Roper, certificates of participation were handed out to all involved.

“These children are the next generation of adults - having these conversations with them early on can help shape the person they grow up to be and the way they interact with people in the future," said PCSO Wilson.

“We want to play our part in fostering a community of respect and diversity. This project has been an effective way for us to connect with students to raise awareness of hate crime and the importance of inclusivity and kindness.”

The sessions explored protected characteristics and provided guidance on what steps to take if students encounter or witness hate crime. Two standout posters were selected to be featured in future awareness campaigns across the local area.

Police Constable Ruth Lee, from the South Devon Diverse Communities team, helped evaluate the students’ work. “It’s great to see how engaged the children were, it was clear they learnt a lot. As police officers, we support schools to educate around hate crime and the impact it can have on individuals and communities.It’s an opportunity for us to empower children and help them recognise the effect of their own actions and those of others."