West Yorkshire rallies together to support victims of stalking

During the 16 Days of Action Against Domestic Abuse, organisations from across West Yorkshire have rallied together to improve the support available for victims of stalking.

2nd December 2022

During the 16 Days of Action Against Domestic Abuse, organisations from across West Yorkshire have rallied together to improve the support available for victims of stalking.

Yesterday (01/12/22) at an event with over 70 participants from 18 agency partners, Victim Support, a victim’s charity, showcased their new service to support the victims of stalking, and outlined how organisations can utilise the service to improve their journeys through the criminal justice system if they choose to report to the Police.

The service, which launched in October, was funded by over £450,000 from West Yorkshire Mayor, Tracy Brabin.

The money has provided a new Independent Stalking Advocacy Caseworker team who work with all victims of domestic stalking (stalking by a partner, ex-partner, or family member).

Since going live less than two months ago, the service has received over 200 referrals from Police and other organisations.

One survivor explained how this support was invaluable:

“Victim Support have been great.

“[They] listened to me and just by three simple words it made it better - ‘I believe you.’

“They never questioned me, just believed me.”

The event comes just days after Mayor Brabin launched her Safety of Women and Girls Strategy, which sets out the region’s long term plan for tackling violence against women and girls.

Speaking at the event West Yorkshire Mayor Brabin said:

“We know that stalking can end in murder.

“Getting help early can save lives so I would urge anyone who needs support to reach out.

“You will be believed and we are here for you.”

Lesley McLean, Area Manager from Victim Support said:

“Over the past year the number of stalking victims referred to Victim Support has doubled, so this funding for a specialist stalking support service will allow us to help so many more people in desperate need of our support.

“We are delighted with the attendance at our information event and the positive feedback we have received from partners”.

The funding for Victim Support’s new service formed part of a £14 million cash boost secured by Mayor Brabin for victims’ services in West Yorkshire. In addition to funding this support for victims of stalking, the money has paid for over 70 different services, including 52 Independent Sexual Violence/Domestic Violence Advisers.

Visit the Victim Support website for more information about the service.