VICTIMS of stalking are being urged to report it, as part of a national campaign, supported by North Yorkshire Police.

National Stalking Awareness Week runs until Friday, and aims to raise awareness of the types of behaviour some people might not realise are classified as stalking.

Detective Chief Inspector Allan Harder of North Yorkshire Police’s Safeguarding Team, said any pattern of repeated, unwanted behaviour that cases a person to feel distressed or in fear should be reported, and stalking did not have to be violent.

Under current legislation, stalking also includes following, contacting, publishing material relating to the victim, monitoring, loitering, interfering with property and watching or spying.

DCI Harder said: “Stalking can have a long lasting impact on victims, which can be both physical and psychological. In addition there is often further impact socially and economically”.

“The impact of this type of crime can be devastating. North Yorkshire Police want to reassure victims of stalking that we will provide you with the help, support and discretion you need. All reports we receive are taken very seriously. We want to encourage anyone who feels like they are suffering at the hands of a stalker to come and talk to us. We can use the law to help protect you. We do not want anyone to live in fear or distress.”

Anyone who believes they are affected by this is urged not to speak to or engage with their stalker, but to speak to friends, neighbours or work colleagues about the situation, as well as reporting it to the police either in person, on 101, or 999 if an emergency.

Police also recommend reviewing online and social media profiles and how much information is made public, changing passwords if necessary.

For more information and advice, go to northyorkshire.police.uk/stalking