Stalking Awareness Week

Stalking is an offence that can ruin lives but is still not taken seriously enough.  It has risen dramatically in recent years, almost to epidemic levels, with 1 in 5 women being stalked at some point in their life according to the national crime survey.   It is part of a pattern of coercive and controlling behaviour and haunts victims’ lives, often impacting their mental and physical health.   

While stalking is nothing new, the near universal access to technology that can be used to stalk people has taken this crime to a new level.  Some of this is via day-to-day tech, like apps on our mobile phones or air tags, some is tech that can be accessed or bought online easily.   

The scale of the recent increase in this type of offence is extraordinary.  135,000 offences were recorded last year, up from just under 3,000 10 years ago, with increases in every region of the country, including ours.  Nearly 7,000 people were charged last year. 

As a result, last month the Crown Prosecution Service launched its first stalking action plan, designed to tackle the evolving nature of the offence in the digital age, working with tech and trauma experts “to equip our prosecutors with the tools they need to deliver justice for as many victims as possible.” 

Whatever the method, a regular feature of stalking is persistent unwanted contact, whether that’s via texts, calls, emails, letters or social media, sending unwanted gifts or damaging property. 

As with all crimes, early intervention and prevention are key in recognising harmful behaviours and stop it from escalating.   If you are experiencing stalking, you are not alone.   In a non-emergency situation, you can contact the police by calling 101 and explain what is happening. If you feel there is any immediate threat to your safety, then always call 999.  Avon and Somerset, like every police force in England and Wales, has a Single Point of Contact for stalking victims to provide appropriate support 

You can also contact the National Stalking Helpline, whether you choose to report or not, on 0808 802 0300 for confidential advice and the Cyber Helpline website has a useful Cyberstalking Action Plan.