Wesport, the Active Partnership for the West of England, has responded to an increase in hate crime by launching the ‘No Hate, Just Sport’ campaign.

The multi-sport pilot project within Bristol has been created in partnership with SARI (Stand Against Racism & Inequality) and recognises the vital role that sport plays in promoting physical health, mental health and fostering community cohesion.

Police-recorded hate crimes within the city of Bristol increased by 15% from 2023/24 to the year ending March 2025, and by 27% since 2022/23.

No Hate, Just Sport recognises that sport can provide a safe space and sense of belonging for those people who might be experiencing discrimination and hate in other parts of their lives. But it also recognises that discrimination and hate can occur at all levels within sport itself.

The project – which will provide best practice guidance, training and education resources and an ongoing awareness campaign – aims to break the silence and nurture environments in sports clubs that are free from discrimination and hate, so that everyone can access the positive outcomes that sport provides.

Wesport CEO Steve Nelson said: “Sports clubs are often the heartbeat of communities — places where people feel safe, valued, and connected.

“We want to make sure they’re safe for everyone, everywhere. After pulling together best practices from across the industry, we hope that No Hate, Just Sport can help to provide some of that clarity." 

According to Avon & Somerset Constabulary Offences, race-flagged hate accounted for 73% of all hate crime in 2024/25 and increased by 18% compared to the previous year. Offenders aged under 18 have almost doubled since 2022/23.

Read the full story at wesport.org.uk

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