GMP steps up efforts against stalking as national awareness week begins

Tuesday, 22 April 2025 15:45

By David Murphy

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) is reinforcing its commitment to tackling stalking offences as it supports this year’s national stalking awareness campaign.

Throughout the week, GMP is highlighting the work being done to support victims and secure more positive outcomes, while also raising awareness of the signs of stalking, including behaviours described by the ‘FOUR’ acronym – Fixated, Obsessed, Unwanted, Repeated.

Stalking can take many forms, from physical following to online harassment, and can leave victims feeling anxious, fearful, and powerless. Last year, GMP secured positive outcomes for over 3,000 victims, with further improvements expected in 2025 following the introduction of a specialist Stalking Triage Centre.

The centre, funded by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), offers vital support to officers investigating stalking cases. It helps guide officers through evidence gathering, suspect management, and safeguarding measures to ensure victims remain at the heart of each investigation.

Detective Inspector Rebecca Jones, based at the triage centre, said: “Our stalking work over the last few years – and months in particular – has seen significant improvements in our service delivery. We continually adapt and evolve, with victim-centric work at the heart of what we do.”

GMP continues to act on recommendations from the 2022 super-complaint by the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, whose findings were released in 2024. The force also works with charities such as The Pankhurst Trust and Catch 22, who attend the triage centre weekly to share best practices and assist with complex cases.

Victims are encouraged to come forward, though support is available whether they choose to involve the police or not. The GM Victims’ Service offers help to all victims and witnesses of crime, regardless of whether an official report has been made.

Anyone needing support can call the GM Victims’ Service on 0800 876 6155 (Monday to Friday, 8am-6pm; Saturday, 9am-5pm).