Morning Live Unveils Disturbing Stalking Figures in Startling Segment
In a sobering start to today's broadcast, BBC's Morning Live presented by Helen Skelton and Gethin Jones delivered a heartbreaking revelation about stalking in England and Wales. The show, which aired on February 25, featured guests including chef Anna Haugh, health expert Dr Oscar Duke, and Strictly Come Dancing star Nadiya Bychkova for a fitness segment, but it was the discussion on stalking that captured urgent attention.
Shocking Statistics on Stalking Victims
The segment highlighted data from the Office for National Statistics, revealing that an estimated 1.4 million people have been victims of stalking in England and Wales. This alarming figure underscores a widespread issue, with women disproportionately affected compared to men, and young adults facing some of the highest rates. In 2024 alone, police recorded 129,000 stalking offences, painting a grim picture of the scale of this crime.
Expert Insights and Low Conviction Rates
Former police officer turned presenter Rav Wilding joined the show to delve deeper into the statistics. He explained that approximately one in seven adults over the age of 16 has experienced stalking at some point in their lives, indicating a significant portion of the population is impacted. However, conviction rates remain relatively low, a concern Wilding attributed to several factors.
- Difficulty in securing convictions without substantial evidence.
- Many victims are reluctant to go through the court process.
- Alternative civil-based options exist but do not boost official conviction figures.
Wilding emphasized that while these alternatives provide recourse, they contribute to the low numbers in charged or convicted cases, which falls short of public expectations.
Addressing Digital Stalking and Warning Signs
The discussion also covered the Stalking Action Plan, aimed at combating digital stalking methods. Wilding noted that advancements in technology, such as GPS systems and air tags, are being exploited by stalkers to track victims, making the issue even more scary and pervasive. He highlighted key warning signs of stalking, including:
- Fixation and obsession with a specific individual.
- Repeated or unwanted attention.
Additionally, Wilding referenced a 2020 Crown Prosecution Service survey, which found that 84 percent of stalking cases involve ex-partners, showing that most victims know their stalkers personally.
Support for Affected Viewers
At the conclusion of the segment, hosts Helen and Gethin directed any viewers affected by stalking to the BBC Action Line website for support and resources. This move underscores the show's commitment to raising awareness and providing practical help in the face of this distressing issue.
