A new report from Bristol Disability Equality Forum (BDEF) and Stand Against Racism and Inequality (SARI) is calling for greater awareness, better support and stronger action to tackle disability hate crime in Bristol.
Launched at Bristol City Hall, the report, The Reality of Disability Hate Crime in Bristol 2026, draws on the experiences of Disabled people from across the city. Through a series of engagement sessions, participants shared stories of discrimination, hostility and exclusion, with many describing feelings of isolation and a lack of safety in public spaces.
The report highlights concerns about under-reporting of disability hate crime, limited awareness of Disabled people’s experiences, barriers to accessing support, and discrimination in workplaces and online environments. Participants also put forward a range of community-led solutions aimed at creating a more inclusive Bristol.
As a valued tenant of Eastside Community Trust, BDEF plays an important role in supporting Disabled people to have a voice in decisions that affect their lives. The organisation worked closely with SARI to ensure the report captures the lived experiences of Bristol’s Disabled communities and identifies practical steps for change.
Following the launch, WECIL (West of England Centre for Inclusive Living) will lead on disability hate crime support in Bristol, encouraging people to report incidents and helping build a clearer picture of the challenges Disabled people continue to face.
The full report is available on the BDEF website and provides important reading for anyone interested in creating a fairer, more inclusive city.
Read the full report: https://bristoldef.org.uk/news-and-stories/hate-crime-report-launch-2026/
