Highlighting the affects of stalking

Advances in technology mean stalkers can track and terrorise victims and increase intrusion into their lives, and studies have shown that stalking is far more common than previously estimated.

Stalking incidents reported for 2015-16 in the Borders accounted for 7.4 per cent of incidents related to domestic abuse, a 1.1 % rise from 2014-15.

Councillor Donald Moffat, SBC’s executive member for community safety, said: “In addition to finding that stalking is more common than first thought, recent studies have also found that the consequences for victims are more profound than imagined.

“The complexity of stalking behaviour and the motivations behind it make it difficult to comprehend and solve, but it is important that people understand and recognise the signs of stalking and what constitutes it so they can get the necessary support.”

If you are experiencing stalking behaviour contact either the National Stalking Helpline on 0808 802 0300 or the Scottish Borders Domestic Abuse Advocacy Support Service on 01835 825024 for confidential advice and support.