As part of Lambeth’s wider 2021-2027 strategy to tackle Violence Against Women and Girls, LSAB invites you to observe National Stalking Awareness Week. Stalking can take many forms and is not just limited to physical instances but virtual ones too, like cyber-harassment, use of tracking applications or of domestic security cameras. It should be noted that a recent study showed that in 94% of femicides the killer had displayed behaviours associated with Stalking. Also noteworthy is that there are often reports of Stalking in the 12 months prior to domestic homicides, or those involving a current or former partner.

This year’s theme is ‘Bridging the Gap’, in reference to the need to help facilitate access of victims to the criminal justice system and support networks. This highlights victims’ need for Independent Stalking Advocates. In a survey and subsequent report created by the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, it was shown that access to ISAs not only greatly aided victims in their navigation of the criminal justice system but more generally the impact experienced in terms of their mental health.

If you believe yourself or someone else to be a victim of Stalking, the four associated warning signs are:

• Fixated
• Obsessive
• Unwanted
• Repeated

To report Stalking or Harassment, call 101 or 999 in an emergency.

Alternatively, you can call the National Stalking Helpline – 0808 802 0300

Resources, help and advice can be found on The Suzy Lamplugh Trust website.

Further information and support can be found via Paladin, the National Stalking Advocacy Service.

Lambeth has published a series of reports and reviews regarding Domestic Homicide that can be found here.

The war in Ukraine has displaced over 10 million people, particularly women and children, who are now at risk of Modern Slavery and exploitation in general. Ukraine is a pre-existing trafficking hub making many vulnerable to being ‘re-trafficked’ and increasing risk in general. LSAB is aware that this issue may only increase over time as more refugees are welcomed into the UK, creating a new pool of persons at risk. The fast-tracked nature of the sponsor scheme may also lead to poor vetting, further exposing refugees to risk. It is of particular concern that the majority of said refugees are women and children.

Lambeth’s SAB has published various resources on how to recognise indicators associated with Modern Slavery, which can be found here. We recommend reviewing these before making any reports of suspected Modern Slavery.

The Human Trafficking Foundation has compiled a list of resources for those affected, some of which are available in Ukrainian, Russian or Polish among other languages.

More information on Modern Slavery in relation to the war in Ukraine can be found via Anti-Slavery International

If you are concerned you’ve come across modern slavery, it is important you report it if you feel safe to do so.
In an emergency, you should always call 999. In a non-emergency, call the police helpline on 101. For confidential advice, you can also contact the modern slavery helpline on 0800 0121 700. 

In the latest edition of our newsletter you can find out more about the learning from SAR George and find out how to join the London Safeguarding Voices Group. For all this and more see our newsletter below. 

NHS LONDON #CheckWithMeFirst

The Survivors Trust’s #CheckWithMeFirst campaign works to improve the general practice of NHS healthcare professionals when caring for potential survivors of sexual abuse. #CheckWithMeFirst highlights how triggering medical appointments can be for survivors of sexual abuse and aim to reduce distress in survivors in need of care. The video below elaborates on how #CheckWithMeFirst plan to improve the service provided by healthcare professionals, please watch this short clip and visit The Survivors Trust’s website to learn more about this campaign.