Victims of hate crime are being given advice on how to report the problem in an animated film funded by the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner.

The short film, produced by Citizens Advice Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole, provides easily understandable information for people who have experienced hate crime and encourages them to come forward and report the issue.

The video explains what a hate crime is – including issues ranging from hoax calls, abusive texts and social media, to physical violence or deliberately damaging someone’s property or vehicle.

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner Martyn Underhil said: “Hate crime has an appalling impact on victims, but sadly we know that many hate crimes across the country don’t go reported.

“I’m proud to have supported this film, and I hope it will give victims the confidence to come forward so perpetrators of hate crime can be brought to justice.”

A full list of third party reporting centres is included on the Prejudice Free Dorset and Dorset Police websites.

Zoe Bradley, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice BCP, added: “This film has been produced for the specific reason of enabling individuals to raise their levels of confidence and faith within the system to report a hate crime and receive support.

“It explains in detail how they can be supported through the process to take some of the fear away. We are proud to have produced this important film in supporting victims of hate crime.”

In an emergency dial 999. Call 101 for non emergency matters, or report online to Dorset Police.

People who are deaf, hearing impaired or speech impaired can go here to report issues.

Hate crime can also be reported through the True Vision website while more information can also be found on the Prejudice Free Dorset website.