Advice leaflet issued in bid to prevent more abductions

A TOP detective has written a guide to help parents and children stay safe from stalkers.

Detective Inspector Hamish Brown's leaflet details how people can deter the unwanted attentions of stalkers.

Police Commissioner Sir John Stevens launched the guide this week with Diana Lamplugh, founder of the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, which was set up following the abduction of her daughter in the 1980s.

The leaflet, Protection from Stalking and Harassment: A Guide to Minimising the Risk to Children, is designed for use at home, in schools and clubs, and by anybody who has a child.

Sir John said the guide provided advice without raising the fear of crime.

"The stalking and harassment of children and young people is fortunately rare and this guide is about minimising the risk by taking simple and sensible precautions," Sir John said. "It should also reassure parents and others with responsibility for children that there are ways of reducing the likelihood of these types of crimes being committed, what to do if it does happen and where to get advice and support."

DI Brown, who has years of experience of harassment and stalking, said: "Keeping children safe from the unwanted attentions of others is naturally of enormous importance to all parents and guardians.

"We identified a need and desire from parents for advice and produced this guide to help allay fears and give practical suggestions.

"By following the steps outlined, the risks to children will be greatly reduced and the police's ability to take action against offenders greatly enhanced."

Minister for Children John Denham said: "Children can be particularly vulnerable.

"This guide provides advice to parents and others responsible for children who may be on the receiving end of unwelcome attention or behaviour."

The guide will be distributed across London's schools and libraries and will be available in police stations and on the Met's website at www.met.police.uk

15:51 Monday 21st October 2002

Printer Friendly Format

Send This Page To A Friend