Hate crime has risen in Waltham Forest, new data has revealed.

Last year there was a 24 per cent increase in reports of crimes with race, sexuality, disability or age perceived as the motivating factor.

Next week, the Community Safety Scrutiny Committee at Waltham Forest council will consider a report on the issue.

In 2011, funding was secured by Waltham Forest Police Community Safety Unit for a helpline for victims and witnesses of hate crime.

An evaluation of the project has revealed the services are under-used.