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Stalking
Stalking is more than just unwanted attention. It’s a pattern of fear, control, and intimidation that can have devastating impacts.
What is Stalking?
“A pattern of repeated, unwanted behaviour that causes fear or distress.” It includes behaviours like following, messaging, monitoring, or threatening. Even if the stalker’s actions seem small on their own, together they create a serious risk to your safety and wellbeing.
Further to this, most victims know the perpetrator, often an ex-partner. They typically go on to experience five or more forms of contact, including calls, social media messages, and physical following. In UK law, stalking is defined as two or more incidents that cause a person to feel harassed, alarmed, or in fear of violence.
How Common Is It?
1 in 5
women will be stalked in their lifetime.
1 in 11
men will be stalked in their lifetime.
8.8%
of young women aged 16–19 are most at risk.
6.6%
of stalking reports in 2023-24 led to a criminal charge.
1.4%
of stalking reports in 2023-24 led to a conviction.
Why It’s So Dangerous
It is often a precursor to sexual violence or homicide. Research shows strong links between stalker’s behaviours and:
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Obsessive thinking
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Threats of control or revenge
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Escalating physical or sexual harm
Victims may be forced to change jobs, homes, or entire routines to feel safe.
You may be experiencing stalking if someone:
Contacts you repeatedly when you’ve asked them not to.
Monitors your movements, devices, or social media.
Sends gifts or messages you didn’t ask for.
Threatens you directly or indirectly.
Appears at places you frequent: your work, home, or gym.
What the Law Says
In England and Wales, stalking is a criminal offence added to the Protection from Harassment Act 1997 in 2012. Courts can issue Stalking Protection Orders (SPOs) to help keep victims safe, even before a prosecution. It is punishable by up to 10 years in prison if it involves fear of violence or serious alarm or distress. The law also covers cyberstalking, including online harassment via social media, emails, and GPS tracking.
Why People Don’t Always Report It
Many victims feel they won’t be taken seriously. Some are told by police or loved ones that they’re “overreacting” or that “nothing illegal has happened yet.” This can prevent people from seeking help until the situation escalates dangerously.
What You Can Do
Trust your gut - if it feels threatening, it probably is.
Keep records - save messages, photos, or CCTV.
Tell someone - a friend, family member, or support worker.
Contact police - stalking is a crime.
Speak to Safeline - we’re here to help.
References
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Suzy Lamplugh Trust (2024). Stalking Statistics Briefing.
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Longpré et al. (2024). Stalking and Sexual Homicide. Behavioural Sciences & the Law.
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Office for National Statistics (2023). Crime Survey for England and Wales – Stalking Module.
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Patton et al. (2010). Rates of Stalking Perpetration and Victimisation.