A SCHEME is being set up to establish the true level of 'hate crime' in Swindon.

Hate crime describes acts of violence and harassment committed against a person because of their skin colour or sexuality.

However, victims are sometimes reluctant to report such crimes, due to fear of reprisals, lack of confidence in the police or concerns about their privacy being invaded.

The Swindon Crime and Disorder Implementation Team is determined different agencies should work together to identify problem areas and provide practical solutions.

Later this year, the public will be able to fill in forms outlining worries or crime concerns, but without having to walk into a police station.

It is being touted as a third party scheme of reporting crime and crime concerns. Those filling in the form will have the option of stating which agencies they would like involved.

Only in the most serious cases would the police step in regardless.

PC Ruwan Perrera, Wiltshire and Swindon constabulary's diversity co-ordinator, said: We want the true figures. I believe we have the tip of the iceberg.

PC Perrera added it was vital for relevant agencies, whether police, community groups or council departments to have as full a picture as possible.

In the last year, racially motivated crimes reported to the police in Swindon and Wiltshire have quadrupled.

However, police estimate there were nearly one thousand cases that went unreported.

If you want to get involved in the forum or would like information about hate crime, contact Miriam Minty, Crime and Disorder Co-ordinator on 01793 466510.