HATE-crime is being targeted by Cleveland Police as the force encourages people to come forward and report incidents.

A scheme called True Vision is being expanded in the majority of forces in England and Wales. In Cleveland, 3,000 race-hate packs and 1,000 homophobic packs have been delivered to libraries, youth centres, places of worship, doctors surgeries, universities and colleges.

Officers have also given direct input to students during fresher's week on how to use the packs.

Superintendent Mick Sedlatschek, head of community development, said: "I am conscious there is a wealth of instances which go unreported - but if people don't tell us - we can't do anything about it.

"Often, this type of incident eats away at people's self respect and quality of life. The packs offer the victim information on where they can get help and their options to report the crime."

The packs provide information on a range of community issues, ranging from bullying to domestic violence.

It is also possible to report hate-crime via the force website on www.cleveland.police.uk