VICTIMS of hate crimes are using their own personal stories to help educate others.

The six month pilot project by Droitwich-based Speakeasy NOW, offering education in schools across Worcestershire against hate crime, is looking to expand to further its work.

Focused on supporting those with learning disabilities who have themselves been victims, they now share their own hate crime experiences to positively influence young people.

Their classes were recently visited by Deputy PCC Barrie Sheldon.

Victims like Celia, said: "I lost all my self-confidence when a group of teenagers followed me, and called me names about my disability. They stole my bag and my purse."

Police & Crime Commissioner Bill Longmore has supported the programme with a £9,500 grant and with local support from PCSO's feedback from schools and pupils to the real-life examples of hate crime as shared by Celia and others, has been very supportive.