Charity supporting victims of stalking in Scotland receive funding boost

A specialist charity working to support stalking victims in Scotland will receive government funding for the first time.

Action Against Stalking will use the funding to develop and deliver training for services and organisations that work with victims of stalking. As cases become increasingly complex, greater understanding of victims’ needs is required across the justice system and beyond.

The charity, which is the only stalking-specific victims service in Scotland, will receive more than £55,000 in 2019-20 to establish an office space and employ specialist staff.

More than one in ten adults experienced at least one type of stalking or harassment in 2016-17 and 2017-18 combined. Being sent unwanted messages by text, email, or on social media sites was the most common type of stalking and harassment reported.

In response to the announcement, Kate Wallace (pictured), Chief Executive of Victim Support Scotland commented: “The commitment of funding from the Scottish Government towards supporting victims of stalking offences is hugely welcomed. The prevalence of stalking is more common than what people realise.

“It can also be traumatic and disruptive for those that are affected by this crime and it’s important that this experience is heard, understood and taken seriously. Victim Support Scotland is committed to supporting victims of all crime types throughout Scotland, as well as being responsive to the changing nature of crimes.”

Picture (c) Victim Support Scotland.