Practical writing on safeguarding, professional judgement, risk identification and system learning in domestic abuse, stalking and coercive control. Drawn from independent review learning, training delivery and frontline experience.
In my previous article, I argued that recent changes to stalking legislation are welcome, but legislation alone will not improve professional practice. Stalking Protection Orders already gave the police an early-intervention power. The more difficult question is whether that power is properly recognised, understood and embedded within the systems and practical tools used by investigators. The Joint NPCC and CPS Checklist for Use by Police Forces and CPS in Cases of Harassment
New legislation strengthens the response to stalking, but early intervention through Stalking Protection Orders is not new. The deeper failure has been one of recognition, professional understanding, confidence, leadership and consistent use of powers that already existed.
