Stalking is a serious and often misunderstood form of violence against women and girls (VAWG). It can be persistent, harmful and life-changing for those experiencing it, yet it is frequently minimised or misidentified.
A training package has been commissioned by this office as part of the Disruptive VAWG project, delivered by national charity the Hollie Gazzard Trust, to strengthen the confidence, knowledge and skills of professionals and practitioners who may come into contact with stalking behaviours as part of their role.
Building Confidence to Identify and Respond to Stalking is a practical, evidence-informed training session designed to improve understanding of stalking, how it presents, and how to respond effectively and safely.
The training focuses on:
- Recognising stalking behaviours and patterns, including those that may appear low-level or ambiguous
- Understanding the impact of stalking on victims and survivors
- Challenging common myths and misconceptions
- Strengthening professional curiosity and risk awareness
- Knowing how and when to take action, escalate concerns and refer appropriately
The session is grounded in real-world practice and reflects current learning from stalking advocacy, criminal justice and safeguarding contexts.
The training is suitable for professionals working across a wide range of sectors, including:
- Policing and criminal justice
- Local authority and safeguarding teams
- Health, education and housing
- Community safety and voluntary sector services
- Any role where staff may encounter individuals experiencing stalking
By the end of the training, participants will:
- Feel more confident identifying stalking behaviours and risk factors
- Better understand the lived experience of stalking
- Be clearer about their role and responsibilities in responding to stalking
- Be better equipped to support victims and survivors and reduce harm
- Understand how effective early identification can disrupt patterns of abuse
To find out more, visit Home – Hollie Gazzard Trust