Stalking and harassment are prevalent in domestic abuse, extending into the digital realm. Behaviours like constant communication, uninvited visits, and online threats are components of high-severity stalking. The advent of specific criminal offences for stalking highlights its severity and the need for legal intervention.

The Suzy Lamplugh Trust advises that one in five women and one in ten men experience stalking but currently only 1.7% of stalking cases result in a conviction. Although it is elsewhere reported that in 2022, 6% of reported stalking cases in England and Wales ended up in charges being brought.

A third of the victims had a prior acquaintance with their stalker. Many victims are stalked by ex-partners.

In 2021, the Metropolitan Police recorded 1,000 cases per month, compared with 200 cases per month in the year to April 2020.

Protection Against Stalking (PAS) understand the harmful effects of stalking on peoples’ lives. They’re committed to raising awareness of the signs and educating about the benefits of early intervention, while supporting victims of stalking in all communities across the UK. Like DAVSS, they are Kent based, however they are a national charity.

PAS was inspired by the stories of Clare Bernal and Rana Faruqui. 

Clare was tragically shot dead by a former boyfriend in the Harvey Nichols store in Knightsbridge, where she worked, in September 2005. He began stalking her after their three-week relationship had ended, following her in the street, pestering her with phone calls, standing outside her house and bombarding her with text messages, before ultimately walking up behind her at work and shooting her in the head four times.

Rana was stabbed to death in August 2003 by a former boyfriend who had been stalking her for many weeks, following their split three months earlier. The police were called to her house on several occasions and the man was warned a number of times after spying on her, generally harassing her by photographing her, sending emails and text messages and even cutting the brake pipes on her car. 

General Safety Strategies

• Maintain Evidence: If safe to do so, keep records of all communication from the stalker, including voicemails, texts, emails, and any other form of contact. These records may be crucial for future legal action.

• Stay Connected: Always carry a mobile phone with you and have emergency numbers readily available. If you feel threatened or in immediate danger, don’t hesitate to call 999.

• Trust Your Instincts: If you sense something is wrong or feel uncomfortable, trust your gut instinct. Seek help or remove yourself from the situation, even if there are no immediate threats apparent.

• Identify Safe Spaces: Have designated safe locations in mind where you can go in case of an emergency. This might include police stations, public areas, places of worship, the homes of trusted family or friends (unknown to the stalker), or domestic abuse shelters.

• Avoid Isolation: Whenever possible, avoid travelling alone. Consider finding a friend to accompany you during outings or exercise sessions. Vary your routes and routines to make it more difficult for the stalker to track your movements.

• Be Cautious Online: Be mindful of the personal information you share on social media platforms and during online transactions. Opt for the highest privacy settings on your social accounts and exercise caution when providing personal details online.

Home Safety Strategies

• Inform Others: Make your friends and neighbours aware of your situation. Provide them with details about the stalker, including a photo and descriptions of any vehicles they may use. Ask them to alert you or contact the police if they spot the stalker near your home.

• Maintain Confidentiality: Keep your address confidential whenever possible. Instruct friends and neighbours not to disclose your address or phone number to anyone, even individuals claiming to be delivery couriers or similar.

• Plan Escape Routes: Identify multiple escape routes from your home in case the stalker is present. Plan routes for various scenarios, such as if the stalker is at the front or back of your house or if they manage to enter the premises.

• Prepare a Go-Bag: Pack a bag with essential items you may need if you have to leave quickly. Include items like spare credit cards, ID, cash, medication, important documents, keys, and other valuables. Keep this bag in a secure location or entrust it to a friend or relative.

• Secure Your Home: Address any broken windows or doors to enhance security. If you can, install an alarm system that can alert the police if triggered.

• Change Contact Information: Consider getting a new, unlisted phone number or blocking your current number if you’re receiving unwanted calls. Maintaining privacy with your contact details can help minimise opportunities for the stalker to contact you.

By implementing these safety strategies, individuals can increase their security and protect themselves against potential threats posed by stalkers, especially within their own homes.

Breaking the Silence:

If you have any concerns or worries about stalking, cyberbullying, or online abuse, please check out the signposted advisory services. Breaking the silence surrounding domestic abuse, both online and offline, requires a collective effort. By raising awareness, advocating for legal reforms, and fostering a culture of support, we can create safer environments for all individuals affected by domestic abuse.

Conclusion:

Understanding the link between stalking and domestic abuse is crucial in addressing the complexities of abusive relationships. By recognising the signs, providing support to victims, and holding perpetrators accountable, we can work towards a future where no one has to endure the trauma of domestic abuse alone.

How To Get Help

Nationally there are a range of helplines available, including (but not limited to):-

• The Freephone National Domestic Abuse Helpline, run by Refuge on 0808 2000 247
• Victim Support –  24 hour Supportline on 08 08 16 89 111 or start a live chat any time
• Respect – the helpline for male victims of domestic abuse – Freephone 0808 8010327
• Mankind Initiative – confidential helpline on 01823 334244 open Monday – Friday 10am to 4pm
• Galop helpline for LGBTQ+ people experiencing any kind of abuse or violence – 0800 999 5428
• Karma Nirvana for honour based abuse – UK Helpline: 0800 5999 247

Other useful contacts:-

• Suzy Lamplugh Trust / National Stalking Helpline – 0808 802 0300 

If in any circumstance you are in danger, please always call 999 and get immediate help.