Web helps to beat racism (From Witney Gazette)

Web helps to beat racism

7:30am Sunday 21st January 2007 in Headlines By Nione Meakin

VICTIMS of racial harrassment in Oxfordshire can now use a new web service to report incidents and get advice and support.

The new scheme has been funded by the county council and is being managed by the county's Multi-Agency Network for Tackling Racially Aggravated Harassment (Mantrah), a partnership that supports victims of racial incidents and identifies repeat offenders.

Group representative Alan Haines said: "If victims or witnesses need immediate help they should dial 999 and ask for the police.

"However, the website and self-reporting forms enable all agencies involved in tackling the reduction of racial harassment to work together to provide all the appropriate support to victims."

By logging on to www.reportracismoxon.com, people get help on what constitutes a racist incident and how to get help and fill in a witness or victim report form.

In addition, they can call 01865 791891 to speak to a trained support worker from the Oxfordshire Racial Equality Council.

The website was launched at Stratfield Brake, Kidlington, where a DVD featuring Oxford United players was shown.

For more information, call Mr Haines on 01865 258518.