Gay couple from Gravesend speak out about homophobic abuse in street and say Kent Police failed to make them feel safe
A gay couple say the verbal, homophobic abuse they have received in the streets is leaving them anxious and worried about going out in public together.
Miss Smith and Miss Harlin - who did not want their first names published - have been together for almost a year and in that time have been shouted at, stared at and followed through their home town in Gravesend.
The 22-year-olds have bravely spoken out after more persistent problems they have faced in the last couple of months that they felt compelled to report to the police but are saddened such attitudes still exist "in today's day and age".
Miss Smith said: "It started by them shouting homophobic stuff, mainly at my partner, then towards me. We wanted them to stop so asked them to but they just carried on.
"They were shouting 'get a room' and 'that is so gay' and then some really vile things and just being really harsh.
"All we were doing was holding hands and having a laugh, doing what any other couple would do. For them to target us for that, I just do not understand why.
"It is happening constantly. We have limited going out, walking the dogs and popping into town because of it. It is off-putting. That should not be the case in today's day and age.
"We should not have that fear. No gay couples should be afraid to go out and spend time together."
The pair were given words of advice by officers and say they were told if the incidents continued, community resolution would be taken.
But when the pair reported the continuous problems they claim they were told the case was closed and there was nothing more officers could do.
Miss Smith said she feels "failed" by the force and officers "have not been doing their job" to ensure her and Miss Harlin feel safe and protected from harm.
A Kent Police spokesman said: "On February 25, Kent Police received a report of a verbal assault between two people where on February 13 the suspect, an 11-year-old child, was reported to have used derogatory language towards a woman.
"Following the report, officers carried out several inquiries and spoke to both the victim and suspect, and both parties were given words of advice to not make contact with each other and the report was filed.
"On March 21 officers received a further allegation. The investigating officer carried out inquiries, however there was no evidence of any offence being committed.
"Throughout the investigation the victim has been kept updated and was aware the case would be filed, pending any further evidence coming to light."
It is the first time the couple have been victims of abusive language and say they were "surprised" it was from someone so young questioning the education people are getting on LGBTQ+ issues.
Miss Smith said: "It is affecting our mental health as well which we both struggle with. We are getting to the point where if they do not stop soon then something will happen.
"I do not want it to happen to any other gay couples out there and if they have experienced it or are going through it, it is not OK. It should not be happening at all to anyone.
"Gay relationships are now accepted but it is still going on to people who are just minding their own business, like we were."