Recognising Hate as Crime

A proposed change to the law could significantly strengthen protections for LGBTQIA+ people and disabled communities across England and Wales — and it’s being described as a long-overdue step towards equality under the law.

An amendment to the Crimes and Policing Bill would make crimes targeting people because of their sexuality, gender identity, disability, or sex aggravated offences in their own right, carrying higher maximum penalties. Until now, these crimes have only qualified for a sentencing “uplift”, rather than being recognised as distinct offences.

For LGBTQIA+ communities, this distinction matters.

“It is about recognition as much as punishment,” said a spokesperson for Capital Pride London. “When hate is written into law as a defined crime, it sends a clear message: our lives, our identities, and our safety are taken seriously.”

The amendment, currently progressing through the House of Lords, brings sexuality, gender identity and disability into line with race and religion, which already have specific aggravated offences defined in law.

LGBT+ anti-abuse charity Galop called the move a “landmark moment”, noting rising demand for its services as hate crimes continue to increase. Campaigners have long argued that the absence of defined offences has contributed to under-reporting and inconsistent justice.

The amendment was originally put forward by Rachel Taylor, who cited more than 30,000 recorded hate crimes in a single year linked to sexual orientation, transgender identity, or disability. The government has said backing the change fulfils a manifesto commitment.

LGBTQ+ equality group Stonewall also welcomed the move, calling it a powerful signal that LGBTQ+ people deserve equal access to justice at a time when many feel increasingly under threat.

 

While the bill has yet to become law, the direction of travel is clear. For many in the LGBTQIA+ community, this moment represents not just legal reform — but validation, visibility, and the promise of greater accountability when hate turns into harm.