An anti-homophobic partnership board has been formed that has pledged to tackle homophobic discrimination and reduce hate crimes. There is also a confidential advice and reporting hotline.

Councillor Neil Wilson, executive member for equalities and social inclusion, chairs the partnership board. He said: "We have brought together the agencies who have an interest in the prevention, reduction and detection of homophobic incidents and crime. That way we can enhance the safety of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities.

"This is a real commitment by the council and the partners to fight prejudice wherever we can. Our very existence shows there is still work to do, but with so many key agencies coming together and investing their time and effort, I feel sure we will make progress."

The agreement coincided with the recent IDAHO day - the International Day Against Homophobia - which commemorates the decision in 1990 by the World Health Organisation to remove homosexuality from its list of mental disorders.

The partnership includes the council, police, health services, the East London Out project, Conflict and Change, Drug and Alcohol Services London, Positive East, Race Equality in Newham, Age Concern, SHINE, Victim Support, Stratford Court and the Crown Prosecution Service, Newham Substance Misuse Partnership and the Newham Voluntary Sector Consortium.

Det Insp Sam Faulkner from Newham Police said: "Tackling all hate crimes is a priority in Newham. We recognise that there is under reporting of such crimes but working together, we must engage with lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people that live, work, socialise or travel through our borough. That way we will break down barriers and raise trust and confidence for them to report such crimes."

People who are experiencing hate crime and would like confidential advice can call 020 8430 3736, email hcteam@newham.gov.uk or in the case of an emergency call 999 or the freephone crime and anti-social behaviour hotline on 0800 731 3300.