Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner Empowers Victims of Stalking with Comprehensive Support Services

Heralding this year’s awareness week theme of ‘Join Forces Against Stalking,’ the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight reaffirms its commitment to combating stalking and supporting victims through innovative programs and partnerships.

Stalking remains a pervasive threat to our communities, affecting individuals of all backgrounds. To address this issue comprehensively, the OPCC funds multifaceted initiatives aimed at providing essential support to victims while also tackling the root causes of stalking behaviour.

A cornerstone of these efforts is the newly unveiled support system designed specifically for victims of stalking. The Stalking Advocacy and Support Service provided by Stop Domestic Abuse is accessible across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. It’s an initiative which offers a lifeline to those affected by providing practical and emotional support to those coping with the impact of stalking.

Central to the OPCC’s approach is a ground-breaking partnership model that addresses the issue of stalking by working with perpetrators to understand what drives their behaviour and providing targeted interventions. The Multi Agency Stalking Partnership aims to disrupt the cycle of offending and promote long-term rehabilitation. This approach has garnered recognition and support with central government funding, and involves Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, police, probation service and victim support services.

Lisa Allam, Head of Commissioned Services at the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, emphasised the significance of these services: “Our priority is to ensure that victims of stalking receive the support and protection they deserve. By offering comprehensive advocacy, we aim to empower victims to reclaim their lives and break free from the cycle of fear and intimidation.

“The emotional and psychological impact on victims of stalking can be devastating, so by also working with perpetrators to tackle the root issues and behaviour we can provide support at all levels and better safeguard communities.

“National Stalking Awareness Week is an opportunity to reassure victims there is comprehensive support available, to destigmatise the experiences of victims, and to demonstrate that we are dedicated to working with perpetrators in partnership to break the cycle of offending, to better safeguard communities.”

For more information about the support services available to victims of stalking, please visit Hampshire and Isle of Wight OPCC’s website.

Victim and Witness Support – Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner (hampshire-pcc.gov.uk)

If you need more information about stalking contact the National Stalking Helpline on 0808 802 0300 or email info@stalkinghelpline.org

About the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner

The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight is committed to improving safety and security for all residents. By collaborating with partners and stakeholders, the OPCC works to address key issues affecting communities, including stalking, and provide support to victims.

To raise awareness of stalking behaviour, the OPCC has jointly launched a new romantic comedy video to highlight the problematic behaviours which constitute stalking.

The two-minute film shows what appears on the surface as a ‘happy couple’, however the red flags soon appear with the behaviour escalating when the relationship ends and it becomes clear that life is #notaromcom.

The Stalking Advocacy and Support Service

The Stalking Advocacy and Support Service is provided by Stop Domestic Abuse. It offers support and advocacy to victims of stalking, irrespective of whether the perpetrator is known to them or they have reported the stalking to the Police.

Helpline: 0330 0533 630

Email: stalking@stopdomesticabuse.uk

Website: Stop Domestic Abuse

The Stalking Advocacy and Support Service began on 1 July 2023. It will run until 31 March 2026, with the option to extend for up to a further two years.

The OPCC commissioned the service, providing funding of £130K per year.

Multi-Agency Stalking Partnership (MASP)

The Multi-Agency Stalking Partnership (MASP) works with people to make positive behavioural changes by improving their psychological wellbeing, their relationships, and ultimately reduce the risks of unlawful stalking behaviour and its impact on potential victims.

Funding for the first year, from 1st April 2023 to 31st March 2024, is £479,413 with the second year’s funding totalling £532,348. The OPCC will also be contributing £80K of match funding each year.

The support for perpetrators (PLSI – psychologist led stalking intervention) is delivered by Southern Health. If you are struggling with obsessive thoughts about others and finding it difficult to move on, there is support for you to take back control of your life.

Those who are concerned about their own behaviour can refer themselves to the service by calling Southern Health on 02382 231 0800.