Nottinghamshire Police’s Prevention Hub is urging victims of stalking to reach out
Victims of stalking and harassment are being encouraged to speak out and report offences to Nottinghamshire Police.
The force’s Prevention Hub works to protect vulnerable adults from harm through stalking or stalking-related violence.
One of the tools the force uses to safeguard victims of stalking is through stalking protection orders, which are applied for by the police and granted by a magistrates’ court, and can prohibit an offender from contacting a victim or visiting a particular place.
The orders can also see offenders attending an alcohol rehabilitation programme, surrendering devices such as laptops and mobile phones, and signing on at a police station.
In extreme examples of stalking, lengthy prison sentences have been imposed on offenders who caused fear, unease and distress to victims through their actions.
Nottinghamshire Police currently has 92 live stalking protection orders in place to protect vulnerable victims.
Stalking follows the pattern of FOUR – fixated, obsessed, unwanted and repeated.
Detective Inspector Abi Goucher, safeguarding and harm reduction lead for Nottinghamshire Police’s Prevention Hub, said that the force remains “fully committed” to tackling these crimes and bringing offenders to justice:
“We recognise how difficult reporting offences of this nature can be, and any subsequent criminal justice process, but I want to reassure people that we will treat them with sensitivity and compassion, and they will be supported,” she said.
“Whether offline or online, stalking and harassment are serious crimes which can have a devastating effect on the lives of victims, their friends, and family.
“Stalking goes to the very heart of violence against women and girls, often removing their feeling of safety.
“Any kind of persistent and unwanted contact that causes distress is stalking and is unacceptable.”
For more help and advice, including how to report and support organisations, visit Nottinghamshire Police’s stalking and harassment webpage.
Anyone who thinks they are being stalked is encouraged to report it to police online or by calling 101. If you are in immediate danger, always call 999.
