DYFED-POWYS Police and Crime Commissioner is backing the Hate Crime Awareness Week Wales campaign.

Christopher Salmon wants people who have suffered abhorrent incidents of crime directed against them to speak out and not suffer in silence.

Among the examples of hate crime people have suffered from in the region are, because of who they are, or because they are from an ethnic minority or religious minority, or because of their sexuality.

The Commissioner aims to increase awareness of the issue and how to report it, and raise awareness about the problems which causes untold misery to victims,

Mr Salmon said: “Nobody should have to suffer in silence, I urge victims to report hate crime.

“If you are the victim of hate crime, it’s not your fault - you have the right to live free from abuse and violence.”

“It could include verbal abuse, racist or homophobic graffiti or physical assault.

The commissioner also believes hate crime has a major impact on society that not only affects the victim but also their families, friends and witnesses.

“Unfortunately it continues to go unreported,” he added.

Hate Crime Awareness Week Wales, runs from Saturday, October 11-18.

Days with special focuses include, Monday, October 13 – Religion or Belief.

Tuesday– Disability, Wednesday – Sexual Orientation, Thursday – Race, Friday – Gender Identity.

Activity can be followed on Twitter using #hcawarenesscymru.

Further Help for victims can contact In an emergency Call 999 Report hate crime confidentially at reporthate.victimsupport.org.uk/hate-crime/ Helpline 0300 303 1982.