Hate speech
Language that attacks, demeans, or incites violence against a person or group based on their race, religion, gender, sexuality, disability, or other protected characteristic.
In plain English
Language that attacks, demeans, or incites violence against a person or group based on their race, religion, gender, sexuality, disability, or other protected characteristic.
Why it matters
Some hate speech is a criminal offence in the UK, and most platforms prohibit it. Children may be exposed to it through algorithmic recommendations, gaming chat, and friend-of-friend posts. Reporting, blocking, and conversation all reduce its impact.
Related
Risks and topics
This is practical educational content to support families. For case-specific concerns about a child's safety, contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or your local safeguarding team.
Last reviewed: 2026-05-17