British employers could soon face legal obligations to protect their staff from stalkers and domestic abusers under proposed new legislation inspired by the tragic murder of Gracie Spinks.
The campaign, gaining momentum in Westminster, follows growing concerns about workplace safety after multiple cases where employers failed to act on warning signs about dangerous individuals.
The Gracie Spinks Tragedy
Gracie Spinks, 23, was murdered in 2021 by a former colleague who had been repeatedly stalking her. Despite reporting his behaviour to both police and her employer, the equestrian company where they worked took insufficient action. The killer had previously left a bag containing a hammer, knife and note near where Gracie kept her horse.
Her parents, Adam and Alison Spinks, are now leading calls for "Suzy's Law" - named after estate agent Suzy Lamplugh who disappeared in 1986 - which would mandate employers to implement protective measures for staff at risk.
Growing Political Support
The campaign has attracted cross-party support, with MPs from all major parties backing the proposed legislation. Sarah Owen, Labour MP for Luton North, emphasised that "no one should be unsafe in their workplace" and that current laws provide inadequate protection.
Conservative MP for North East Bedfordshire, Richard Fuller, has pledged to support the campaign, stating that employers have both a moral and practical responsibility to ensure staff safety.
What Would Suzy's Law Require?
The proposed legislation would establish:
- Mandatory risk assessments for employees reporting stalking or harassment
- Workplace safety plans tailored to individual circumstances
- Training requirements for managers to identify and respond to stalking threats
- Legal accountability for employers who fail to take reasonable protective measures
A Legacy of Prevention
The Suzy Lamplugh Trust, founded after the estate agent's disappearance, has been instrumental in pushing for these reforms. The charity's director, Suky Bhaker, stated that employers must recognise stalking as a "red flag" that could prevent further tragedies.
As the campaign gains political traction, businesses across the UK may soon face new legal duties to protect their workforce from predatory behaviour that too often escalates into violence.
