POLICE are calling on people who think they may be victims of stalking to come forward and report it.

With National Stalking Awareness Week starting today, Dorset Police is encouraging members of the public to take action.

In the UK, one in five women and one in ten men are stalked at some point in their lives – 42 per cent of people are stalked by a previous partner and 90 per cent by someone that they know.

This year’s campaign focuses on stalking of children and young people and calls on them to ‘Stand Together and Say No’.

Detective Inspector, Joe Williams of Bournemouth CID, said: “Stalking is not something that simply affects adults.

“We want parents and teachers to encourage young people to open up to someone they know and trust if they are worried about their safety, or that of someone they know.

“It is worth remembering that stalking can take place in both the physical and online world.

“Dorset Police have officers trained to support victims of all ages and investigate these types of offences.”

Joe Williams added: “Stalking is an appalling crime and the impact on victims can be devastating.

“Perpetrators of these crimes should know that we actively target these offences and a prison sentence can apply if convicted.

“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.”

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. It can be closely linked to domestic abuse and sexual violence.

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, Martyn Underhill, said: “Stalking is totally invasive and unacceptable. It ruins lives.

“You do not have to suffer in silence so please come forward and let the police and other agencies help you.”