Working with Derby's LGBT community

Since May 2004 reprsentatives from Derbyshire CPS have been regularly attending meetings and taking part in events organised by local LGBT organisations.

Through our attendance at these events and meetings we aim to listen to the views and concerns of the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) community, and encourage people to report homophobic crimes against them and seek justice through the courts.

Homophobic / transphobic crimes are particularly serious because they undermine a person's right to feel safe about, and be safe in, their sexual orientation and gender identity. Such crimes are based on prejudice and discrimination, and have no place in an open and democratic society.

We regard the homophobic / transphobic element of a crime as an aggravating feature, and our Policy for the Prosecution of Cases with a Homophobic Element is a public statement of our commitment to prosecute such cases effectively.

We are determined to play our part to ensure that all lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people in Derbyshire have the confidence to report hate crimes against them, knowing they will be fully supported throughout any criminal proceedings.