KAYE Townsend is a qualified, BACP registered, person-centred counsellor with a private practice in Flackwell Heath, Bucks. She is currently writing a self-help book, write articles for various publications & work as a volunteer counsellor for a local charity.

Here she answers letters in her Bucks Free Press agony aunt column.

Dear Kaye,

I broke off my 2 year relationship with my partner 3 weeks ago. Since then he sends me emails & texts almost daily, mainly asking why I won’t see him, some of which are insulting & threatening. He also seems to drive into the road I live in quite regularly, it’s obvious it is to check on me as I live in a “cul de sac”. I’m starting to feel vulnerable, anxious & depressed. I really don’t know what my options are, what would you suggest? I don’t mind you printing my name as I wonder if by reading this letter he might realise how upsetting this is.

Thanks, Simone , High Wycombe.

Hello Simone,

Thank you for sharing, this is a frightening situation which is becoming all too common. His actions are a form of bullying & he needs to be made aware of this. Anyone who makes you feel this frightened in your own home needs to be stopped.

I would firstly contact your local police so this on record & keep a diary of events. Don’t reply to the emails & texts but do keep them as a record of contact. After recent events reported in the media, the police do take this kind of behaviour seriously. Below are details of the Metropolitan Police website with advice for stalking/harrassment. Keep in mind the telephone numbers 101 if it’s not an emergency & 999 if it is.

Meanwhile, good luck & be safe, Kaye.

Metropolitan Police http://www.met.police.uk/victim_support/stalking_advice.htm