After investigating this issue for a number of years, the Government has asked the Law Commission to look into broadening the number of 'protected characteristics' covered within hate crime legislation. These could include ageism, misogyny and alternative cultures such as Goths.
James Brokenshire, the Communities Secretary, announced an updated & revised action plan today to deal with hate crimes where vulnerability and/or hatred are involved.
Organisations representing various disadvantaged groups, such as Age UK, welcomed the move as there have been cases where older people have been dehumanised.
Mark Walters, a professor of criminal law & criminology, said "hate crimes increase fear, anxiety and shame", so this is important. He went on to say that Individual groups should not be targeted and it's important to let society know that this behaviour will not be tolerated.
This comes as hate crimes have risen by 17% nationally, with hate crimes against the disabled rising by two thirds in some areas and religious hate crimes rising by 40%, with more than half of them directed at Muslims. Muslims & Jewish people were the highest groups targeted. It is said that Brexit and terrorist attacks have contributed to this.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-45874265