The government has announced plans to introduce a ‘Right to Know’ for victims of online stalking, allowing them to learn the identity of their tormentors at the earliest opportunity. This new guidance was inspired by the experience of former Coronation Street star Nicola Thorp, who was stalked online for two years by a man using multiple social media accounts. Despite the man being arrested, Nicola was unable to find out his identity until he appeared in court. The stalker is now serving a 30-month prison sentence with a lifetime restraining order after being convicted in April last year. This initiative is aimed at empowering victims and enabling the police to bring abusers to justice.
In response to this announcement, Nicola Thorp expressed her support for the new measures, stating that stalking victims have been failed by a justice system that did not adequately protect them. She emphasized the importance of victims regaining control of their lives and the police taking action to hold stalkers accountable for their actions. The government’s commitment to addressing stalking through measures like the ‘Right to Know’ and Stalking Protection Orders is seen as a positive step towards empowering victims and strengthening the response to this crime.
The launch of Metro’s This Is Not Right campaign in November 2024 aims to address the epidemic of violence against women, shedding light on the scale of this issue and engaging readers in the conversation. With the support of Women’s Aid, the campaign seeks to empower individuals to speak out and share their stories on violence against women. This initiative aligns with the government’s efforts to combat stalking and provide better protection and support for victims. By raising awareness and encouraging a discourse on this important issue, initiatives like This Is Not Right can contribute to creating a safer and more supportive environment for those affected.
In addition to the ‘Right to Know’, the government is also expanding the availability of Stalking Protection Orders and publishing national standards on stalking perpetrator programs in England and Wales. These measures, alongside the acceptance of recommendations from the Suzy Lamplugh Trust’s super-complaint, aim to strengthen support for stalking victims and empower them to seek protection from their abusers. The government’s commitment to using all available tools to empower victims and hold abusers accountable underscores the importance of addressing the systemic issues that have allowed stalking to persist and escalate in the past.
Recent reviews and guidance have highlighted the need for a more robust response to stalking within the criminal justice system. A lower standard of proof for issuing Stalking Protection Orders has been introduced to make it easier for victims to access protection. Former safeguarding minister Laura Farris emphasized the gravity of stalking and the importance of continuous efforts to address this issue. By recognizing the need for stronger measures and a more proactive response to stalking cases, policymakers are showing a commitment to improving support for victims and preventing further harm. The focus on empowering victims, holding abusers accountable, and increasing awareness of stalking as a serious crime is crucial in creating a safer environment for all individuals.
