Starting this month, dedicated support for victims of stalking in the county is available through Paladin, the National Stalking Advocacy Service.  Their team of accredited Independent Stalking Advocacy Caseworkers offers specialist advice, advocacy, and support, ensuring that victims are protected, and their voices are heard throughout the often complex and challenging criminal justice process.

Commissioner Grunshaw said: “Stalking is a high-impact crime that deeply affects victims by disrupting their daily lives and creating an environment that makes people feel unsafe and fearful, often over prolonged periods of time.

“Stalkers display unwanted, fixated and obsessive behaviour which is intrusive and causes fear of violence or serious alarm or distress. I want the people of Lancashire to know that this kind of behaviour is neither normal nor acceptable.

“I have commissioned Paladin to provide specialist support for anyone in Lancashire who has been affected by stalking to ensure that they can access the right help and support for their needs.

“Paladin also offer advice and support to police officers dealing with stalking cases to ensure the best possible support and outcomes for victims.

“My message to anyone affected is simple; please report what is happening to Lancashire Police and take up the support I have commissioned through Paladin.”

Louise, Chief Operating Officer at Paladin National Stalking Advocacy Service added: “We are delighted to be working alongside Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner to ensure victims of stalking in Lancashire have access to support.

“Having a dedicated service in Lancashire is a much-needed and positive step forward to improving the response to victims of stalking across the area, and I would urge anyone affected by stalking to contact us.”

Support for victims of stalking is available regardless of whether a crime has been reported to the police. Further information and contact details for Paladin are available at paladinservice.co.uk.