Council relaunches stalking awareness campaign during global 16 Days of Action

The international 16 Days of Action Against Gender-Based Violence is a global campaign to raise awareness and encourage action to end violence against women and girls.

Running until 10 December, it’s a chance for communities everywhere to stand together and call for change.

As part of this, Newry Mourne and Down District Council in partnership with Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council is re-launching its Stalking Awareness Campaign. Stalking was officially recognised as a crime in Northern Ireland in 2022, carrying penalties of up to 10 years’ imprisonment for perpetrators.

Research shows that almost one in four women (23%) in Northern Ireland have experienced stalking at some point in their lives, often alongside other abusive behaviours such as domestic violence.

A video has been created sharing vital information on putting personal safety measures in place to protect yourself, how to report stalking and to signpost victims to organisations for help and support. See: https://www.newrymournedown.org/safeguarding

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Cllr Philip Campbell said, “I very much welcome the opportunity provided by the Stalking Awareness Campaign to raise awareness of this crime and call for change. As a Council we want to make sure victims of stalking, and all those experiencing domestic abuse, can easily access the help that is available to them.”

Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Stephen Moutray said, “Stalking is a serious crime that can have devastating impacts on victims. By raising awareness and signposting support, we want to ensure that no one feels alone and that help is always within reach."

If you feel that you - or someone you know – is a victim of stalking, help is available.

For more information and support, log on to https://www.newrymournedown.org/safeguarding or call the National Stalking Helpline on 0808 802 0300 or the 24 hour Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline on 0808 802 1414.