Hampshire Stalking Clinic Tipped as National Role Model by Suzy Lamplugh Trust
Hampshire’s Police Stalking Clinic has been hailed as a beacon of best practice by the Suzy Lamplugh Trust. Their new report, Out of sight, out of mind, praises the clinic’s work as National Stalking Awareness Week (16-22 April 2018) shines a spotlight on this hidden crime.
Multi-Agency Team Tackles Stalking Head-On
Commissioned by the Police and Crime Commissioner, Hampshire’s multi-agency stalking clinic reviews the riskiest cases every month. A powerhouse team of police, probation officers, CPS lawyers, Southern Health mental health pros, and a specialist victim advocate join forces to protect victims and stop stalkers in their tracks.
The report highlights police training as a key area needing improvement nationwide. Hampshire leads the way with joint training sessions delivered by a detective inspector and a specialist victim advocate. This hands-on approach means officers really get the complexities of stalking.
Referral Numbers Soar After Tougher Training
Lucy Kay, stalking service manager at Aurora New Dawn, revealed: “Since launching the joint training, referrals to the clinic have surged. From 15 January to 14 March, we handled 208 cases — a clear sign that awareness is rising.”
Detective Chief Inspector Suzette Allcorn added: “Stalking is a brutal crime of obsession and persistence. It’s isolating and devastating for victims. We’re committed to working with partners to stop stalkers and keep victims safe.”
Commissioner Leads the Charge for Victim Support
Michael Lane, Hampshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner and one of only seven PCCs nationwide to back specialist stalking services, said: “I’m proud to fund a clinic recognised as a national model. Stalking wrecks victims’ mental, physical, family, and work lives. They need tailored support to recover — and we’re making that happen.”
