National Stalking Awareness Week
APCC Victims Lead, Dame Vera Baird QC PCC said:
“National Stalking Awareness Week provides a welcome focus on the destructive impact that stalking has on its victims and provides an opportunity for Police and Crime Commissioners, the police and other organisations to, not only reflect on the services they provide, but to promote some of the positive work that is currently being undertaken.
“Whilst progress has been made in recent years to tackle stalking, it is clear that PCCs, through their Police and Crime Plans must ensure that sufficient measures are in place to tackle stalking and harassment in all its forms. Currently, we know, there is a range of positive work carried out by PCCs, whether it is directly related to stalking, or, as is often the case, with stalking as an important part of a wider domestic violence strategy.”
APCC Deputy Victims Lead, Marc Jones PCC said:
“Stalking can destroy lives and PCCs have a responsibility to ensure that the right services are in place to encourage greater reporting and support victims. There is undoubtedly some excellent work going on in this area but there is always more that can be, and should be, done.”
National Stalking Awareness Week runs from Monday 16th April – Friday 20th April 2018 and is about raising awareness of stalking and the stories behind the statistics. This year Suzy Lamplugh Trust are focusing on increasing reporting levels, encouraging victims to talk about their experiences and access support from police and other statutory and voluntary organisations.