Criminology - U2 - AC4.3 - Pressure Group Campaigns

Pressure Groups

Organisations that try to influence government policies by mobilising public support and persuading politicians to bring about change for a specific cause.

Protection Against Stalking (PAS) – Campaign Launch

In 2011, PAS launched a campaign to make stalking a specific criminal offence due to inconsistent police responses and lack of victim protection.

PAS – Problems with Existing Law

The 1997 Protection from Harassment Act was ineffective for stalking; only 70 prosecutions in 10 years and no clear police guidelines.

PAS – Parliamentary Inquiry

PAS set up an independent inquiry with MPs and peers from all parties, collecting evidence from victims, experts, police, and probation officers over several months.

PAS – Campaign Outcome

The 2012 inquiry report, supported by MPs and police organisations, led to the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012, making stalking a distinct criminal offence.

PAS – Campaign Success Factors

Success was due to amplifying victims’ voices, involving frontline professionals, and maintaining media focus to pressure government action.

INQUEST – Focus and Role

A pressure group supporting families of deaths in state custody or care, ensuring investigations are fair and state bodies are held accountable.

INQUEST – Notable Cases

INQUEST has been involved in high-profile cases like Grenfell Tower fire, Hillsborough disaster, and the Mark Duggan shooting.

INQUEST – Campaign Activities

Provides legal support to bereaved families, researches cases, holds institutions accountable, and pressures for policy changes to prevent future deaths.