We are still missing the signs of stalking and lives are being lost

Imagine having to change your route to work, checking your phone constantly, sleeping with the lights on or feeling unsafe in your own home. For thousands of people, this is the daily reality of stalking.

Recently I delivered a keynote speech at a national stalking conference. It is an issue I am determined to confront head‑on, not only because of the devastating cases we all know, but because so many victims continue to live in fear every day.

As Police and Crime Commissioner, my Police, Crime and Justice Plan is clear: we must do more to tackle violence against women and girls, protect victims, and intervene earlier to prevent harm. That begins with recognising stalking for what it is from the very first warning sign.

We know the consequences of inaction. The deaths of Alice Ruggles and Gracie Spinks are heartbreaking reminders of what happens when patterns of behaviour are missed or minimised. Suzy Lamplugh’s name still resonates decades later. These are not isolated tragedies but the result of risk not being acknowledged soon enough.

Around 1.5 million people experience stalking each year. One in five women will be affected in their lifetime, most often by someone they know. This is not rare, it is happening in our communities right now.

Too many victims are dismissed or told to “just block them,” gather their own evidence or wait for behaviour to escalate. This is dangerous and while progress has been made since the national super‑complaint, it is not enough.

Stalking is evolving. It is no longer only someone following you down the street. It can be digital, relentless and hidden.

So how do we stop it sooner?

We start by recognising the warning signs. Paladin has identified the below behaviours. Anyone can complete Paladin’s Stalking Screening Checklist and seek expert advice on 0203 866 4107 or contact the National Stalking Helpline on 0808 802 0300.

• Are you frightened?
• Is there a previous domestic abuse and/or stalking harassment history?
• Has the stalker ever destroyed or vandalized any of your property?
• Does your stalker turn up at your workplace, home etc., unannounced or uninvited more than three times per week?
• Does your stalker follow you or loiter around your home, workplace etc?
• Have they made any threats or physical or sexual violence?
• Have they harassed your friends, family, children, colleagues, partners or neighbours?
• Have they attempted/threatened suicide?
• Have they been known to be abusing drugs and/or alcohol?
• Have they been known to be violent in the past?

If we are serious about tackling violence against women and girls, we must stop treating stalking as isolated behaviour. It is part of a wider pattern of control and abuse, and it demands urgent action.

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