Bedfordshire Police and the Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner is calling on people to look out for the signs of stalking, after the force reveals it has received more than 1,500 reports of stalking and harassment in the last year.  

Yesterday (Monday) marked the start of National Stalking Awareness Week, with stalking accounting for 40 per cent of offences relating to male violence against women and girls. 

Stalking is described as a pattern of unwanted, fixated and obsessive behaviour which is intrusive. It can include harassment that amounts to stalking or stalking that causes fear of violence or serious alarm or distress. 

Over the last year, the force has made 310 arrests and secured 172 charges in relation to stalking.  

Stalking can have a significant impact on victims, affecting them emotionally, psychologically and can lead to serious harm. 

One woman's experience of being stalked by someone she didn't even know in Bedfordshire left her feeling violated and fearful for her safety. 

She said: "I became scared of my own shadow and every noise within my own home which had now become my own prison. I battled with questioning why me and victim blaming myself." 

Detective Sergeant Ben Searle from Bedfordshire Police's Stalking Prevention and Intervention Unit said: "Stalking can be incredibly traumatic for victims and linked to some of the highest harm crimes, including domestic abuse, sexual offences and even murder.  

"We know people often wait to report stalking until the issue gets worse, which is it is vital we raise awareness of the early signs to spot and reporting tools available to help protect victims. 

"It's important that everyone recognises the signs. Look out for changes in behaviour of your children, friends or neighbours, which can include being withdrawn, becoming more introverted or anxious and even having suicidal thoughts. 

"The mnemonic FOUR – Fixated, Obsessive, Unwanted, Repeated – describes stalking behaviour, and this contact can be in person, by gifts, or via social media, email or messaging apps. 

"Please remember if you are a victim of stalking, it is never too early to report to us." 

Umme Ali, Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for Bedfordshire said: "Stalking is not 'just a nuisance', it's a heinous crime that can escalate quickly and leave lasting trauma for victims.  

"One of the core missions of the PCC's Police and Crime Plan is putting victims at the heart of everything we do. 

"We are working with partners to ensure victims of stalking are believed, and protected, with access to support when they need it. Perpetrators must be held accountable. Awareness is key, but action is essential." 

To find out more about stalking and how to report any incidents to police visit https://www.beds.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/beta-stalking-and-harassment/what-is-stalking-harassment/