POLICE and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for North Wales Andy Dunbobbin recently visited the Victim Help Centre in St Asaph to meet two new specialist Victim Support caseworkers at the centre whose work will further strengthen support for victims of stalking and other crimes across the region. The news comes at the start of National Stalking Awareness Week (April 20–26, 2026) across the UK.
National Stalking Awareness Week is led by the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, which aims to reduce the risk and prevalence of abuse, aggression, and violence – with a specific focus on stalking and harassment – through education, campaigning, and support.
The Victim Help Centre in St Asaph is a service commissioned by the PCC that offers free, confidential support to anyone affected by crime in North Wales – regardless of whether the incident has been reported to the Police. The new positions – funded through additional investment from the Office of the PCC – include a Victim’s Voice Caseworker and an Independent Stalking Advocate Caseworker (ISAC). Both will expand the centre’s ability to support victims, amplify their voices, and improve their experiences of the criminal justice system.
The newly created ISAC role at Victim Support is held by Cathy Griffiths, who specialises in supporting people experiencing non‑domestic abuse stalking (this is where there was no intimate relationship between victim and perpetrator prior to the stalking beginning). This dedicated post fills an identified gap in provision and ensures victims have somewhere to turn for practical, emotional, and specialist advocacy.
ISACs can provide advice on target hardening and personal safety, navigating contact with the police, understanding the criminal justice process, and managing the impact of stalking on work, education, and everyday life.
The role of Victim’s Voice Caseworker at Victim Support is carried out by Sue Davies, who focuses on ensuring victims’ experiences influence how services operate. Her role includes managing the Service Users’ Survey, supporting participants in the North Wales Victim’s Panel, and promoting the services of the Victim Help Centre through outreach to schools, colleges, and community groups. The Victim’s Panel was created by PCC Dunbobbin in 2022 to give an opportunity for victims and survivors to tell criminal justice partners what can be done better throughout the system and to improve the victim’s experience of it.
Andy Dunbobbin, Police and Crime Commissioner for North Wales, said: “Stalking can have a devastating impact on a person’s life, affecting their safety, their wellbeing, and their ability to go about everyday activities without fear.
“As we mark National Stalking Awareness Week, I am proud that we are investing in specialist roles that give victims the dedicated support they need and deserve.
“Cathy and Sue bring vital expertise to the Victim Help Centre, helping ensure that victims are heard, supported, and empowered at every stage of their journey.
“Closing gaps in support and strengthening services for victims remain top priorities for my Office, and these appointments are an important step forward.”
Sioned Jacobsen, Senior Operations Manager at North Wales Victim Help Centre, said: “These new roles are a hugely welcome addition to our Help Centre team.
“We know that stalking can leave people feeling constantly anxious, harassed and fearful. Many victims wonder if they’ve done something to encourage the unwanted attention – but stalking can happen to anyone, at any time.
“It’s important that people who experience stalking feel fully supported and listened to. Our caseworkers can provide help, practical advice and safety tips – such as how to talk to their employer or college about their experience if they choose to do so, or how to adapt their habits to ensure they feel safe.
“Giving people the tools they need to cope with the situation can make an enormous difference to their quality of life.”
To find out more about the Victim Help Centre, visit: North Wales – Victim Support
