Lincolnshire residents are being empowered to speak up about stalking

We have launched the county’s first campaign to raise awareness of the harm caused by stalking.
 
According to the Office of National Statistics, one in five women and one in 10 men will have experienced one or more incidents of stalking since the age of 16 and victims typically do not report the crime until the 100th incident.
 
Crimestoppers charity, Lincolnshire Police, Lincolnshire Police and Crime Commissioner and Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust are collaboratively running this campaign over an eight-week period, to emphasise to the public that stalking is a crime. 

There are FOUR main behaviours of stalking:  fixated, obsessive, unwanted and repeated behaviours that someone displays when carrying out acts of stalking.

Stalking also can take place in person and online. It can leave victims distressed or in fear for their safety.

As part of the campaign, Lincolnshire Police are holding a Stalking Conference for professionals in a position to support people affected by the crime on Monday 30 September. The aim is to increase awareness and to empower people to report it.
 
The campaign will also run across social media.

“As well as cyberstalking, stalking can include a stalker turning up at a victim’s workplace or home and watching them or following a victim with spyware, unknown to the victim, via a smart device.

“It is a very damaging crime and can have a devastating emotional impact. We want people to know exactly what to do about stalking and who to speak to for support. We are also encouraging victims to report the crime.

“I am pleased we are launching the first ever stalking campaign and conference in Lincolnshire. As well as raising awareness about stalking, we hope the campaign also reduces the incidences of the crime, as people become more aware of the signs and repercussions.

“People can report what they know 100% anonymously to us via the 0800 555 111 number, or via our untraceable anonymous online form 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”
 

Victims should contact local police on 101. If you are in immediate danger, always dial 999.

Read more on our Lincolnshire Campaign Stalking page.
 
Stalking victims can be supported in Lincolnshire by Victim Lincs for advice and support, whether the police have been contacted or not on 01522 947 510 or by emailing victim@lincs.pnn.police.uk, Monday to Friday 8am to 4pm.

The Suzy Lamplugh Trust charity can be contacted on their National Stalking Helpline: 0808 802 0300 for support and the Paladin: National Stalking Advocacy Service on 020 3866 4107.