Refuge welcomes new Stalking Protection Orders

New powers to stop suspected stalkers under police investigation contacting victims have come into force today in England and Wales. Sandra Horley CBE, Chief Executive of National Domestic Abuse charity Refuge said:

“Refuge welcomes the new Stalking Protection Orders giving victims further tools to protect themselves from violence and abuse. We are particularly pleased that a breach of the order an automatic criminal offence, but SPOs should never serve as a substitute for prosecutions. Whilst they have the potential to bridge the gap in protection for victims of stalking, SPOs only function properly if used consistently across police forces. The police must be given adequate resource and training in how to use them if they are to be a success.”

For more information, please email press@refuge.org.uk or call 0207 395 7731.