Stalking remains one of the most pervasive, underreported, and terrifying forms of gender-based violence, leaving survivors in constant fear for their personal safety and psychological wellbeing. In an urgent broadcast on BBC Radio Humberside, Hull Sisters joined forces with the national personal safety charity Suzy Lamplugh Trust to bring this critical issue to the forefront of regional discussion.
Representing Hull Sisters, Sonia highlighted the grave realities faced by minoritised women experiencing stalking and harassment across our city. The discussion underscored disturbing national figures: between 2019 and 2020, an estimated 1.5 million individuals in the UK were victims of stalking, yet only 3,500 perpetrators were formally charged, and a mere 304 received custodial prison sentences. Compounding the crisis, recorded stalking offences climbed by another 20% by 2022.
During the broadcast, the conversation addressed the systemic gaps in legal protections and statutory policing that frequently leave survivors isolated. For women from the global majority, seeking help is often hindered by cultural stigma, fears surrounding immigration status, and a lack of faith in statutory reporting systems.
Hull Sisters continues to combat this crisis on the frontline through specialized casework, safety planning, and community education. By engaging directly with regional media and national sector experts, we ensure that the voices of victims are heard and that the urgent demand for judicial accountability and survivor protection remains uncompromised.
