Reports of stalking "always increasing", says Essex charity
Changing Pathways says "more stalking specialists" and "police training" are needed
A charity, which offers support for domestic abuse and stalking in Essex, hopes to see 'more specialist training' and 'police training' ahead of a national stalking report.
Changing Pathways, which works across the county says it 'welcomes' the report, set to be released today (26 September), outlining recommendations to tackle stalking.
A caseworker and advocate from the charity, who wanted to remain anonymous, told Greatest Hits Radio she hopes this report is a "turning point".
"We've had some really good progress in tackling domestic abuse and I see stalking as five or ten years behind that."
"We want to see stronger protection for victims when they have reported to police. That looks like more stalking protection orders.
"We'd like to see more support and training for police officers so they can hand out a higher volume of stalking protection orders.
"We need more funding for funding specialists and external professionals like GPs. It's really important that people know where to refer people who are concerned that they are being stalked.
Changing Pathways is a local domestic abuse charity working in South and South West Essex.
They provide free and confidential support and advocacy to individuals of any gender subjected to domestic abuse and stalking in the areas of Basildon, Brentwood, Castle Point, Epping Forest, Harlow, Rochford and Thurrock.
They told us the number of stalking reports they receive each month is "always increasing".
"We received 20 to 30 calls this month across the county. And that number is always increasing."
Changing Pathways has said the most important thing if you feel you are being stalked is to "trust your gut instinct".
"The client often has no idea that someone has become fixated on them.
"We often see people that have bene stalked for 2 or 3 years and they haven't thought to report it.
"This is because they don't think it will be taken seriously.
The charity have said "you must report it straight away if you think something's not right."
"Report it to police first. Then contact 'Compass'."
Compass is the Essex domestic abuse and stalking helpline. They have a helpline available from 8 am to 8 pm weekdays and 8 am to 1 pm weekends.
They also offer a self-referral service.
If you are concerned you are being stalked, please visit the Compass website or contact their helpline 0330 333 7444.