We’re helping vulnerable people recognise the signs of hate-related stalking and harassment
A South Tyneside charity is helping children and young people to recognise the signs of stalking.
A South Shields-based domestic abuse charity is raising awareness of how vulnerable people can be at greater risk of hate-related stalking and harassment.
Stopping Unsafe Relationships Together (SURT)’s SAD (Stalking Against Disability) Project has secured a grant from the Police Crime Commissioners Community Fund to further their work around the issue.
SURT states that stalking is defined as “a pattern of persistent and unwanted behaviour (two or more times) motivated by a fixation or obsession towards a person that causes them to feel distressed or fearful. Stalking can be carried out online or offline but often involves aspects of both”.
The SAD Project
Those taking part in the SAD Project have learned about what makes a ‘community’, as well as identifying the advantages of safe, supportive community relationships.
Participants also met with representatives from the Local Authority Community Safety Partnership to learn how to recognise and report stalking and hate-related crimes.
As part of the project, SURT Steering Supporters worked together to develop a ‘talking in Young People’s Relationships information leaflet’, which has been created by young people for young people.
The material will be used to raise further awareness so more children and young people understand stalking and hate-related behaviours.
Speaking about the project, Leanne Hansen one of SURT’s Managing Directors, said: “SURT data tells us that young people who have a disability can be particularly vulnerable to relationship abuse and therefore at greater risk of stalking and hate related harm.
“Facilitating an opportunity for SURT Steering Supporters to create and deliver a project led by them and for young people has been informative and great fun.
“I have been impressed by the insight, creativity and team work skills of the SURT Steering Supporters.”
‘Many stalkers are former partners’
Claire Amans, SURT’s other Managing Director, added: “Stalking often begins after a breakup. Many stalkers are former partners who cannot accept the relationship ending.
“In most stalking cases involving young people, the stalker is someone they already know, not a stranger.”
Anyone who is concerned about a child or young person experiencing stalking should report it to Northumbria Police and can reach out to SURT for advice.
If you would like to access the information leaflet from the SAD Project, contact SURT via their website at: https://wearesurt.org/.