THURROCK'S policing teams have congratulated two community workers who have been awarded 'Hate Crime Ambassador' status in the borough.

Officers from Thurrock Neighbourhood Policing Team visited the Fountain Day Centre in South Ockendon as CEO Dr Mark Amadi and Community Liaison Officer Ashley Okeowo completed their Hate Crime Ambassador (HCA) training.

In a statement the local police force said: "We're delighted to share that both Dr Amadi and Ashley are now officially Hate Crime Ambassadors for their local community. 

"Their commitment to supporting vulnerable individuals and promoting safer spaces means the Fountain Day Centre is now recognised as a Hate Incident Reporting Centre (HIRC)

"Hate Crime Ambassadors work alongside Essex Police to help identify hate crime, raise awareness, and support anyone who has experienced or witnessed a hate incident.

"Their role includes:

• Promoting and encouraging the reporting of hate crime
• Supporting victims and witnesses throughout the reporting process
• Raising awareness of the impact hate crime has on individuals and communities
• Signposting people to the right support services and partner agencies

"A Hate Incident Reporting Centre is a safe and welcoming community space—not a police station—where people can get help reporting hate incidents.

"With two trained Hate Crime Ambassadors on site, the Fountain Day Centre can now:

advertisement

• Assist victims and witnesses in reporting hate incidents
• Provide support and reassurance
• Connect individuals with support partners such as Essex Police, local councils, housing associations, NHS teams, social services, and independent charities

"Please join us in congratulating Dr Mark Amadi and Ashley Okeowo on their new roles. Their dedication will make a real difference to those who need someone to turn to."