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Britain's
Biggest Breakfast Show
GMTV.CO.UK
We offer the latest advice on what
to do if you are being stalked or suspect that you are.
An alarming 23.6% of British women will experience stalking at some point in
their life, compared to 5.2% of British men.
Stalking and harassment is on the increase, and can have a devasting effect on
victims. And if you think that you have to be rich or famous for someone to
follow or spy on you, or try to get more involved in your life than you want
them to - then think again.
On GMTV on Wednesday, we talk to Rhonda Saunders
who is a world wide expert on the subject from our LA Studio - she’s advised
Madonna, Steven Spielberg and Gwyneth Paltrow.
If you suspect you’re beIng stalked or you know you are, follow our advice:
• Phone or visit your local police immediately no matter how trivial the
harassment may seem. This will enable them to record your complaint, log,
monitor and build a profile of the offender.
• To assist prosecution: 1. Keep a record of all events, telephone calls etc.,
noting as much detail as possible including time and date of incidents. 2. Try
to get photographic or video evidence of your stalker’s actions. 3. Do not throw
away parcels or letters. 4. The police advise that you should read any mail you
receive in case it contains threats or indecent / offensive language.
• Get to know your neighbours so that they can keep a record of sightings and
notify you of anything they may see or notice.
• Inform work colleagues about the
harassment so they will be able to support and protect you (i.e. prevent calls
from reaching you and prevent your stalker from gaining access).
• Try to alter any daily routines, if possible ask friends to accompany you and
always try to let someone know what your plans are and when they change.
• Although it may be hard, try to show no emotion towards the stalker, do not
confront them and do not agree to meet them. If you do come into contact, aim to
get away and ideally into a busy public place.
• Consider buying a mobile phone and a personal alarm.
• Consider improving home security measures by asking your local Crime
Prevention Officer to look around your property and offer free advice.
• If you receive malicious or threatening calls, try to keep calm and show no
emotion. Do not answer the phone with anything more than hello”.
• If the stalker continues to ring, answer the phone but place the handset to
one side for a few minutes and walk away then replace the handset - you do not
have to listen to what the caller has to say.
• For further advice on telephone calls, contact BT’s bureau which deals
exclusively with malicious and nuisance calls on 0800 661 441 (during normal
office hours).
• If you ever feel in imminent danger do not hesitate to call 999.
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