Victims of stalking are set to benefit from a comprehensive crackdown as the Government introduces six new measures to address the issue.
With stalking offences on the rise, these changes are designed to enhance victim protection and impose stricter penalties on perpetrators.
Among the key initiatives is the introduction of a groundbreaking ‘Right to Know’ measure, allowing police to disclose the identity of online stalkers to victims swiftly. The move, inspired by the harrowing experiences of broadcaster and activist Nicola Thorp, aims to provide greater peace of mind to victims who are often left in the dark about whether their stalker is someone known to them.
Nicola, who endured months of online abuse, described the psychological toll of not knowing her stalker’s identity until his sentencing. The man, now serving a 30-month prison term, had used nearly 30 fake social media accounts to send violent messages, once claiming he had been close enough to “smell” her on a train. Nicola praised the new measures, saying:
“For too long, stalking victims have been at the mercy not only of their stalker, but a justice system that failed to protect them. These new measures will empower victims to regain some much-needed control of their lives.”
The Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, echoed this sentiment, stating: “Stalking is a horrendous crime, and we are committed to giving victims the power they need to feel safe. The new measures will empower the police, improve support services, and ensure perpetrators face justice.”
New Measures to Protect Victims
- Enhanced Stalking Protection Orders (SPOs): Courts can now impose SPOs on convicted offenders even if no order was in place before trial. Acquitted individuals could also face restrictions if deemed a risk to victims.
- Collaborative Support Frameworks: A statutory definition of stalking will ensure police, education, and health services work together effectively to protect victims.
- National Standards: Consistent and evidence-based approaches to addressing offender behaviour will be introduced.
- Better Data Collection: New data on stalking offences will help shape policy and policing strategies.
In addition to these measures, a review of stalking legislation is set to identify further ways to strengthen police powers.
The crackdown follows recommendations from a super-complaint by the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, which highlighted significant gaps in the response to stalking offences. Emma Lingley-Clark, Interim CEO of the Trust, welcomed the changes, calling them “urgently needed” to transform how agencies support victims.
Victims and advocates alike hope these measures mark a turning point in tackling a crime that leaves so many in fear. Minister Jess Phillips added: “These measures are just the first step. Stalking is a devastating crime, and we are determined to ensure that no one suffers in silence.”
