A NATIONAL campaign to support victims of stalking has been backed by Dorset Police.

The UK-wide Stalking Awareness Day today aims to raise awareness of the crime, and officers from the county’s police force are calling on anyone who thinks they may be affected to come forward.

This year’s campaign focuses on stalking in the workplace and is called Working Without Fear.

It aims to help both employers and employees understand how stalking can impact on the workplace and what steps can be taken to ensure that employees who disclose stalking feel supported by their place of work.

Stalking is repeated, unwanted contact from one person to another which causes the victim to feel distressed or fearful and is a specific criminal offence.

Sergeant Neil Wright, of Bournemouth CID, said: “Stalking is an appalling crime and the impact on victims can be devastating.

“I would encourage anyone who believes they have been a victim of stalking offences to have the confidence to come forward and contact Dorset Police on 101.”