FOURTEEN PER CENT of callers to the National Crime Victims Helpline are experiencing harassment, it said today.

The helpline said that the 14% are looking for help in dealing with harassment, whether it is in the workplace, community, or in a social setting.

The harassment can be persistent in nature, can be physical, verbal, by text or letter, by isolation, or – as it is noticing more recently – through various social media, it said.

A crime

Michele Puckhaber, co-ordinator of the National Crime Victims Helpline, said that people should be aware that harassment is a crime and should be reported to the gardaí.

“It is the cumulative effect of harassment that can have the most serious impact on victims,” said Puckhaber. “They just can’t seem to find a way of stopping it – and this is coupled with the fact that there is often little evidence that the harassment has occurred.”

Victims often feel they are not being taken seriously; that they have to leave their neighbourhood or employment and can even be afraid to answer the phone or read text messages. If people are experiencing harassment and wish to talk to someone in confidence about this; they should consider calling our helpline and we will be able to help. We can also advise on other agencies who may be able to assist.

According to Puckhaber “the vast majority of people experience very little crime in their lives, but for those who do, it can be a difficult experience”.

The National Helpline number is 116 006, its text number is 085 1337711, and email is info@crimevictimshelpline.ie

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