Cumbria Constabulary supports National Stalking Awareness day

Today is National Stalking Awareness day and Cumbria Constabulary has joined a number of other forces across the country to highlight the seriousness of stalking.

Stalking can be detrimental to the people who are affected and Cumbria Constabulary recognises the impact this behaviour can have on victims. The nature of stalking is ever changing, with development and use of more social networking sites.

Detective Superintendent Paul Smith said "Despite there being only a small number of incidents of stalking reported in Cumbria the effect on the victim of this type of behaviour ensures it is regarded as a priority. The distress and upheaval to an individual’s life subject to stalking can be catastrophic and should not be underestimated.

“Recently the very nature of stalking has changed beyond recognition and the day to day use of the internet and in particular social networking sites allow perpetrators to readily access personal information much easier. Thankfully as expertise grows there is more information available to people so as to enable them to better protect themselves. A publication called 'Digital Stalking: A guide to technology' exists and provides victims with valuable up to date information and advice around personal protection."

“We fully support National Stalking Day and are working to understand the nature and extent of stalking in the county in order to be able to deal effectively with incidents and provide victims with the support and advice they deserve. We would encourage anyone who believes that are a victim of this type of crime to contact the police."

The publication ‘'Digital Stalking: A guide to technology', which is produced by Women Aid who teamed up with national stalking charity Network for Surviving Stalking, is now available on Cumbria Constabulary website at http://www.cumbria.police.uk/advice-and-information/personal-safety/domestic-violence

Anyone who believes they are a victim of stalking should speak to their local police officer or contact Cumbria Constabulary on 101.

For more information and advice about support, visit http://www.womensaid.org.uk/default.asp