Disability abuse

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My friend has sadly had some abuse over disability today. Not saying condition as may be outing but it one which is an obvious disability as in a wheelchair or mobility scooter, so fairly obvious rather than invisible.

Sadly in the past friend had abuse from some possible neighbours who thought she was making up her disability, saying horrible stuff to her in passing. Had to have the police talk to them. These people have also been known for racist and homophobic abuse in a cafe nearby. To one of the staff

Anyway they have again shouted at her, telling her they are 'taking photos' or something. Friend very upset and worried about going out.

Can anyone advise? Is this a disability hate crime? I'm not sure what to suggest. Have said if nearby just to ring me if worried (as this horrible person lives on my road).

How sad this could happen. Am gutted for my friend who has a nasty progressive illness with no cure.

Taking photos for what purpose. If she’s not cheating on benefits or anything then I’m not sure why she should be concerned about the photos, I mean a super annoyed yes, want to stop them yes but in any danger really no. If it’s photos where the suspected motivation is to shame her on social media though then of coarse that would be a hate crime or if they are goading her or belittling her ( rather than just making a statement of doubting her illness is real) then that’s also clearly an issue. Sadly not all speech said with malice is necessarily criminal.

She should call 111 and speak to the PCSO for her area who will be able to advise on what action the police can take. Harassment is a crime.

agree with foxy.
any harassment of a vulnerable person should be taken seriously by police. their big chiefs are always saying that it is, so if no joy ask for the name and contact details of the chief constable/ commissioner if in London.

If she's in England citizens advice have a page about disability hate crime.

Anyway they have again shouted at her, telling her they are 'taking photos' or something.

I think you need to find out what the 'or something' is before you can decide whether it's a disability hate crime.

If the police have had to talk to your friend in the past, then the obvious advice (once your friend has clarified what the 'or something' means) is to call them again.