A joint investigation into a police super-complaint has revealed that substantial changes are required to improve the police response to reports of stalking across England and Wales. The investigation, conducted by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS), and the College of Policing (CoP), found inconsistencies in handling stalking cases and highlighted the need for more effective support for victims.
The report, published on September 27, 2024, follows an investigation initiated by the Suzy Lamplugh Trust on behalf of the National Stalking Consortium. It outlines 29 recommendations aimed at improving the response to stalking cases, with a focus on ensuring better support for victims.
Key recommendations include:
- Outlining steps for chief constables to improve the quality of stalking investigations.
- Changing criminal law on stalking to make it easier for police to understand and apply.
- Simplifying stalking protection orders for easier use by police.
- Enhancing collaboration between police and support services.
These recommendations are directed at police leaders, crime commissioners, and relevant government agencies, including the Home Office and the Crown Prosecution Service, to ensure a more coordinated and effective response.
IOPC Director General Rachel Watson emphasized the importance of addressing stalking cases with the seriousness they deserve, urging victims to have confidence in the system. Change is happening—and today’s report highlights some excellent work we want to see become standard across England and Wales. Sadly, we also saw too many cases where police failed to recognize stalking or take the necessary steps to protect victims—and policing must act now to improve this,” Watson said.
The investigation identified several key issues, including:
- Poor risk assessment, leaving victims at serious risk.
- Confusing guidance and inconsistent practices among police forces.
- A lack of understanding by officers of the seriousness of stalking.
- Failures in safeguarding and providing adequate support to victims.
His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Constabulary Andy Cooke called for prompt action in response to the report, emphasizing the need for investigations to be effective and thorough to ensure victims’ safety.
Chief Constable Andy Marsh, CEO of the College of Policing, also welcomed the findings and noted that updated training for officers and better use of technology would be essential steps in improving the quality of responses. Marsh underscored the importance of timely and effective responses to stalking reports, noting that early intervention is crucial in protecting victims and preventing escalation.
The report concludes that more needs to be done to share best practices and ensure consistent improvement across police forces in England and Wales. Authorities are calling for swift implementation of the recommended measures to make stalking investigations more efficient and responsive to victims’ needs.
