Disability and LGBT hate crimes set to become aggravated offences

Legislation currently being considered in the House of Lords aims to reclassify certain hate crimes as aggravated offences, specifically those motivated by a person’s sexuality, gender identity, or disability. This change would mean that crimes targeting individuals on these grounds are subject to harsher penalties under the law. The amendment is part of the broader Crimes and Policing Bill, which seeks to address various issues related to crime and antisocial behaviour in England and Wales.

At present, offenses involving hostility towards someone’s LGBT+ status or disability may lead to a sentencing “uplift” when such factors are identified alongside a primary charge, like assault. However, the proposed amendment would establish these motivations as distinct charges, each carrying a higher maximum sentence. This adjustment aligns these categories with existing aggravated offences related to race and religion, such as racially aggravated disorderly conduct.

Jasmine O’Connor, co-chief executive of the LGBT+ anti-abuse charity Galop, praised the move as a “landmark moment” for equality, emphasizing the importance of recognizing anti-LGBT+ hate crimes on par with other hate crimes. Labour MP Rachel Taylor, who introduced the amendment, revealed that over 30,000 hate crimes recorded by police between March 2024 and 2025 were linked to sexual orientation, transgender identity, or disability. She expressed her enthusiasm for the development, calling it a “vital change in the law” and a significant step forward for equality.

The government acknowledged that Taylor’s amendment fulfills a commitment made in its manifesto. Campaign group Stonewall also welcomed the change, highlighting that it sends a “powerful message” about the right to equal access to justice. Stonewall’s chief executive, Simon Blake, noted the long-standing advocacy efforts behind this shift and welcomed the government’s action, especially as the LGBTQ+ community faces increasing threats. The amendment extends its protections further, covering victims targeted due to their sex, which the government sees as part of its goal to halve violence against women and girls over the next ten years. The bill remains under consideration and has yet to be enacted into law

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