 The following message contains distressing scenes based on hate crimes prosecuted in Wales. A blind woman walks along the street with her cane. Actors have been used and details changed to protect the victims. A figure close behind her. I was walking along the street in broad daylight when I was attacked by a total stranger. The pavement looms upwards, birds take off, the woman sits at home, head down, shoulders slumped. I crossed the road to try and get away from him, but he followed me and attacked me again. Birds take off. I'm partially sighted and use a cane when I'm out. I was targeted because of how I look. And I felt too afraid to go out or use my cane in public in case I was attacked again. Her frown creases her forehead. She's white, middle aged with dark hair. Caption 4654 hate crimes were recorded in Wales in 2020-21. 504 were disability hate crimes. 50% of victims say they would not report a hate crime in case it made things worse or they thought nothing would be done. I wasn't confident to speak with the police but I needed to report the attack because he might do this to other people. I called victim support instead and they took me seriously and made me feel heard. I gave a statement and they supported me to seek justice. A dog pads in. They found me a caseworker to visit and support me which has really helped. The woman strokes the fluffy dog, smiling. Caption perpetrator received a guilty verdict with custodial sentence. A bystander witness gave a statement and I am so thankful to that person for making a difference to my case. She walks outside, head held high. The prosecution's given me validation. With her long cane. I was targeted because I am disabled but I didn't have to stand for it. She smiles proudly. My caseworker right from the start has made me feel supported and I still see them regularly. They made me feel like I can go outside again. I still have a long way to go but I'm very glad I contacted victim support. Hate hurts Wales. If you see it happen report it and get support by calling the police. Victim support of visiting gov dot wales slash hate hurts wales. Let's stand up to hate crime together.