NORTHUMBRIA Police has seen an increase in the number of arrest and charges in relation to stalking.

This has been welcomed by senior officers as a positive step in victims having the confidence to report it and it is hoped this will encourage others do the same.

The force has seen stalking related-arrests rise from nine in 2016/17 to 316 in 2018/19 with numbers still increasing.

Detective Chief Inspector Eric Myers, who is the force’s lead for stalking and harassment, believes that more people are aware of stalking and harassment and understand how important it is to report it to police.

He said: “We have made significant improvements over the past few years in relation to how we deal with reports of stalking and harassment.

“Our priority is making sure officers will listen to the victim, make appropriate decisions and most importantly take action to make sure the victim is safe.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Dame Vera Baird, said: “If anyone has been a victim of stalking, harassment or malicious communication, please don’t hesitate to come forward to police. Often when we speak to victims they tell us they wish they had come forward sooner.”

We have a specialist team and specialist officers here to help so please report it to police or someone you trust.”

Det Insp Myers continued: “All our officers have been specially trained to go beyond the surface and spot the signs of someone being stalked or harassed.

“Quite often victims themselves may not even be aware of the extent they are being stalked as frighteningly, this can be happening without their knowledge.

“Stalkers may be accessing messages or social media accounts or following a victim’s movements though digital technology or GPS tracking.

“Stalking and harassment is more about someone causing another person fear, anxiety or distress. This could be through persistent messages, receiving unwanted gifts, showing up unexpectedly, finding they have gained access to your social media accounts or home smart devices. It could be that you notice that they may drive past your house or that you see them in places you wouldn’t expect such as work or school.”

A recent victim of stalking and harassment explained the signs she noticed when her ex-partner was harassing her. She said: “

This week is National Stalking Week which is being supported by Police and Crime Commissioner Dame Vera Baird and Northumbria Police. The week is to raise awareness of stalking and harassment and urge victims to come forward. Follow us on social media and search #StalkingStealsLives

If you have been a victim of stalking, harassment or malicious communication please come forward and contact police on 101, or 999 in an emergency. Victims can also contact Victims First Northumbria on 0800 011 3116 who will give independent advice and support.

For information on stalking and harassment please contact the Suzy Lamplugh National Stalking Helpline on 0808 802 0300or search Suzy Lamplugh Trust online.