A critical portrait of hate crime/incident reporting in North East England: the value and limits of statistical data Seminar

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This paper reports on an ongoing analysis of third party reporting of hate crimes/incidents in the North East of England. The data set is one of the largest of its kind in the UK and therefore presents a unique opportunity to explore patterns of reporting across different types of hate crimes/incidents through a system designed to go beyond criminal justice responses. However, we are very aware of the socially constructed character of data, as well as the limitations of quantitative and de-humanised approaches to such experiences. Therefore the paper adopts a critical position, emphaising that interpretation of the data provides a partial insight into everyday exclusions, but also cultures of reporting. This allows us to both cautiously consider the value of such data in understanding and addressing such damaging experiences - with particular reference to trends under the 'race' and religion strands - but also to appreciate what such interpretations might not tell us. This forms the basis for a consideration of the politics of reporting and future research. chaired by Andy Power