There were over 200 reports of stalking to the police in Plymouth last year. This Stalking Awareness Week we want to highlight the help available to anyone dealing with stalking, harassment or any other form of Domestic Abuse.
Reports of stalking increased by 164 per cent in Devon and Cornwall and reports of cyber stalking increased almost tenfold in Plymouth. This rise can be partly attributed to victims feeling more willing to report this kind of abuse.
Harassment and stalking are often used as interchangeable terms. However, they relate to similar but different offences that can cause victims, their families and loved ones physical, psychological and emotional harm.
Offenders can stalk or harass their victims in a number of different ways, including:
a text, answer phone message, letter or email
a comment or threat in person or online (e.g. social media or online chat rooms)
standing outside someone’s house or driving past it
an act of violence
damage to someone else’s property
maliciously and falsely reporting someone to the police without any wrongdoing
Stalking is still very present during the pandemic, with perpetrators changing their tactics to stalk their victims online and through social media.
Reports of stalking in and cyber stalking have increased significantly in Devon and Cornwall in the last year.
If you are being stalked or harassed online, you can contact Devon and Cornwall Victim Support for local support or call the National Stalking Hotline on 0808 802 0300.
Katy Fisher, Local Service Manager for Plymouth Domestic Abuse Services, said: “Stalking and harassment are unacceptable and victims shouldn’t have to live in fear. We hope that National Stalking Awareness Week highlights this important issue and raises awareness of the support available. If you’re experiencing any form of domestic abuse, including stalking or harassment, Plymouth Domestic Abuse Services are here to help. You are not alone.”
Support is available for victims of stalking and harassment, as with all victims of domestic abuse.
The Domestic Abuse Act 2021, due to receive Royal Assent in the next few weeks, will see further rights and support for victims of domestic abuse.
The Act includes a new statutory definition of domestic abuse, emphasising that domestic abuse is not just physical or sexual violence, but can also be emotional, coercive or controlling, and economic abuse.
If you are the victim of domestic abuse, you can contact Plymouth Domestic Abuse Services here or call 0800 458 2558, if you are in immediate danger always call 999.
If you are being harassed in a pub, club or bar, you can approach the staff and ‘Ask for Angela’. Staff will help you leave the situation safely and securely.