Commissioner hails Lancashire action on stalking

The campaign calls for every police force in England and Wales to embed 100 specially trained officers across all ranks and roles—from first responders to investigators—following a national review into how police respond to stalking. In Lancashire, 400 officers are set to receive this specialist training.

The official report on the Police Response to Stalking recommends that Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) work closely with chief constables and dedicated stalking support services to develop a strong, multi-agency approach to tackling stalking effectively.

The Suzy Lamplugh Trust is also urging Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) to commission specialist stalking support services, ensuring that victims have access to the dedicated help they need – something Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner implemented in Spring.

Commissioner Grunshaw said: “I’m proud to highlight the significant progress we’ve made in Lancashire to improve outcomes for stalking victims.

“In April, I announced the launch of the county’s first dedicated local support service for stalking victims, delivered by Paladin and commissioned by my office. This service is available to all victims—regardless of whether they’ve had prior contact, or a relationship with the perpetrator.

“Alongside this, Lancashire Constabulary has developed a tailored professional development programme for officers investigating stalking. From September, 400 officers will receive specialist training, with Paladin contributing expert insight on the day.

“Stalking can have a devastating impact on victims’ lives. I’m committed to ensuring they receive the best possible policing response and access to expert support when they need it most.”

“I will continue working closely with the police and Paladin to deliver the strongest possible outcomes for victims of stalking.”

DI Sarah Tucker, from Lancashire Constabulary’s Vulnerability Governance Unit, said: “Following the Stalking Super-Complaint recommendations, Lancashire Constabulary has made significant improvements in the way we identify, investigate and support victims of stalking. The Force has reviewed its policies, guidance and training to ensure that every opportunity is taken to identify stalking offences, pursue the offenders and safeguard victims.

“We are proud to have worked with the Police and Crime Commissioner to secure the commissioning of a dedicated stalking advocacy service which will support all victims of stalking.

“Additionally, we have committed to providing specialist training to all officers who investigate stalking offences to ensure that victims receive a consistent and supportive response, and investigations are conducted to a high standard.

“Lancashire Constabulary will continue to work closely with the OPCC and specialist stalking services to provide a victim-focused and proactive response to stalking offences.”

A spokesperson for the Suzy Lamplugh Trust said “We welcome Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner’s commitment to improving their response to stalking. We urge all Police and Crime Commissioners across England and Wales to embed specialist knowledge and commission specialist stalking services. Without decisive action and consistent multi-agency working, victims will continue to face inconsistent responses and inadequate protection.”

A spokesperson from Paladin said: “Paladin values the continued commitment from Lancashire Police Crime Commissioner, Clive Grunshaw, in recognising the need for specialist support for high-risk victims of stalking across Lancashire.  Through multi agency working, and training, we aim to develop better pathways for victims and a better understanding of stalking and the devastating impact it can have on victims.”