Dyfed-Powys Police and the Paladin National Stalking Advocacy Service have won a national award for their work supporting stalking victims.

The force and Paladin were named winners in the Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence category at the Wales Safer Communities Awards 2025, held last month at Aberystwyth University.

The awards honour exceptional multi-agency contributions to community safety across Wales.

Dyfed-Powys Police was recognised for its pioneering pilot programme, the only service of its kind in Wales, which provides specialist support to stalking victims. Working with Paladin, the force has recruited Independent Stalking Caseworker Advocates (ISACs) to offer risk assessments, safety planning, help with Stalking Protection Orders, and guidance through legal proceedings.

Detective Chief Inspector Llyr Williams from Dyfed-Powys Police said: "We are incredibly proud of this recognition. Our collaborative approach has significantly improved our response to stalking crimes and ensured victims receive specialist support throughout their journey through the criminal justice system. The Stalking Intervention Panels have been instrumental in improving professional knowledge and delivering better outcomes for victims.”

Since its launch, the service has received 54 referrals from across the Dyfed-Powys area.

DCI Williams added: "The force's commitment to tackling stalking has been strengthened through this partnership. Our officers now have access to specialist training and support, which has directly led to increased referrals and enhanced knowledge across the force."

The force has also introduced ‘Stalking Champions’ – officers specially trained by Paladin to support front-line colleagues with stalking reports. The initiative has raised awareness and significantly improved the force’s response to stalking offences.

Feedback from service users has been overwhelmingly positive. One victim said: "I wouldn't have got through what I did if I didn't have my ISAC. For my ISAC to be able to support me with everything, speaking with the police, housing, courts, I can't thank her enough."