THE POLICE and Crime Commissioner in Thames Valley, Matthew Barber, has launched a new service to improve support for victims of stalking.
The Thames Valley Stalking Service will provide specialist support to the victims of stalking in Berkshire, Oxfordshire, and Buckinghamshire.
The service will be handled by Aurora New Dawn, a charity which gives support to those affected by domestic abuse, stalking, and sexual violence.
The office of the PCC will award the charity £120,000 annually for the next three years to deliver the service.
Victims First will also work with the service to manage referrals, assess victims, and determine how best to administer support.
Matthew Barber said: “I am pleased we are able to offer specialist provision to help those affected by stalking in the Thames Valley and to be working with Aurora New Dawn who have proven expertise in this area.
“The service forms a key part of my strategy launched last year to improve the safety of women and girls in the Thames Valley.
“Stalking can affect every area of a victim’s life with stalking behaviours potentially experienced over long periods of time, leading to emotional and psychological distress and fear.”
He continued: “It is important that victims get the support they need to cope with the impact on their lives and move forward.
“This may include helping them cope emotionally, practical safeguarding advice as well as advocacy and guidance to empower them and help them feel safe as they navigate the criminal justice process.”
Aurora New Dawn’s Chief Executive, Dr Shonagh Dillon, said: “Victims of stalking need long term support outside of the criminal justice system.
“Far too often, responsibility falls primarily to police officers who have to navigate stalking scenarios without professional support from trained experts.
“This is why we are incredibly pleased to work with Thames Valley to deliver Independent Stalking Advocacy Caseworker support to victims of stalking offences in the area.
“This partnership enables us to work with victims and professionals to ensure that everyone gets the best support possible, in a way that has not previously been available to stalking victims in the area.”
