Learning Disability Week picnic to raise awareness of “hate” and “mate” crime

People with learning disabilities in Hackney are invited to a picnic raising awareness of “hate” and “mate” crime on Monday (June 18).

As well as a barbeque and barn dancing, there will be stalls from people providing services for those with learning disablities at the event in St Mary’s Secret Garden which is being held for Learning Disability Week.

“Hate crime is crime against people with disabilities and mate crime is when criminals befriend vulnerable people with an intent to abuse financially, sexually, physically and emotionally,” said organiser Stephanie Linden.

“This is an ongoing issue nationally but more prominent in urban communities.”

The picnic runs from noon to 3pm at the garden in Pearson Street.