HOMOPHOBIC hate crime is to be tackled in a pioneering scheme that will help bring offenders to justice.

The charity Comic Relief has agreed to fund a criminal justice worker in Darlington - believed to be the first in the country - who will help, support and advise victims and witnesses of homophobic hate crimes.

The move is expected to increase the chances of successful prosecutions sending a powerful message to those who prey on members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.

A gay men's sexual survey conducted by Sigma Research revealed that homophobic attacks in Darlington were above the national average.

A national survey also showed two-thirds of gay men had experienced homophobic bullying in the past five years. Such persecution has a devastating effect on victims.

Gay Advice Darlington (Gad) has been working with Darlington Primary Care Trust (PCT) Darlington Borough Council, the police and Crown Prosecution Service on ways to encourage people to report homophobic hate crimes.

Comic Relief has agreed to provide £85,633 to fund the criminal justice worker post during the next three years to ensure victims and witnesses receive the maximum support available.

Gad community development manager Barry Birch said: "Once people have reported such a crime they need support right through the criminal justice system.

"This is specialist work as these hate crimes are an attack on victims' very being, which can have profound psychological effects.

"Gad is committed to challenging homophobia in all guises and this is an excellent opportunity to help victims and witnesses.

"I think it's amazing that Comic Relief has had the foresight to recognise that something needs to be done about homophobic hate crimes because the effects are similar to those surrounding racial attacks."

Darlington PCT's HIV prevention specialist Tim Holmes said: "This is groundbreaking news that will make a real difference.

"It will encourage people who experience hate crimes to report incidents in the knowledge they will be supported through the whole process."

Recruiting is due to start next month and an appointment should have been made by the end of the year.

Anyone who is a victim of homophobic hate crime or who needs advice can contact Gad on (01325) 247355.