LOCKDOWN may make it easier for stalkers to harass their targets, a leading charity claims.
Victim Support Scotland fears the pandemic control measure could leave victims more vulnerable to harassment and intimidation.
With the public at home more often, it’s feared that it could be easier for some perpetrators to locate their targets.
And it’s claimed that cyber stalking or bullying could become a bigger problem with more of us using social networks to stay connected.
Scottish data shows more than 40% of people stalked have never met the perpetrator, and more than two thirds have had unwanted messages via text or web.
One woman, who suffered years of monitoring and intimidation from her former partner, says lockdown will be “devastating” for those experiencing the abuse.
The woman, who can be identified only as Elaine, said: “People will feel trapped, aware that a stalker knows where they are for most of the day and night. Without social contact to help them feel safe and reassured, victims will feel isolated and incredibly fearful.
“Many victims are forced to close their social media accounts, meaning they might feel even more isolated right now. They might worry that there is a lack of immediate help, thinking the police will be too busy because of coronavirus. Their stress levels will be so high, it will impact on physical and mental well-being.
“It is really important that people in this situation feel able to come forward and receive support.”
The warning comes during National Stalking Awareness Week, which marks 10 years since the introduction of laws against the offences. Kate Wallace, chief executive of Victim Support Scotland, said: “Victim Support Scotland is able to support people irrespective of if the crime has been reported to the police or not. We would urge anyone who thinks they are being stalked to contact us.”
Help can be found at 0800 160 1985 from 8am-8pm Monday to Friday.
The anti-harassment call comes one day after Ruth Maguire MSP questioned safeguards for stalking and domestic violence survivors over the move to allow the use of mobile phones in jail to maintain family contact while visiting is suspended.
Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf said: “These are exactly the issues and security restrictions we need to work through. For example, prisoners will be asked to input three numbers into that phone. It will then be for the prison service to verify that those numbers are not inappropriate numbers to be calling, all of that is what takes a bit of time.”
Maguire commented: “Whilst recognising the vital importance of maintaining family contact as visiting is suspended, it is of equal importance that the public and specifically victims of crime know they will be safe during what is already a really difficult time for everyone.”
Scotland is in lockdown. Shops are closing and newspaper sales are falling fast. It’s no exaggeration to say that the future of The National is at stake. Please consider supporting us through this with a digital subscription from just £2 for 2 months by following this link: www.thenational.scot/subscribe. Thanks – and stay safe.
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here