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Harassment is never acceptable and it is a crime, whether it happens online or in person. Repeated unwanted contact is not “just annoying” it’s illegal and can have serious consequences for those responsible.
What Is Harassment?
Harassment means any kind of repeated, unwanted contact or behaviour that causes someone to feel threatened, upset, or unsafe. It can take many forms, such as:
- Repeated and unwanted contact: Calls, texts, emails, or messages you don’t want or haven’t asked for.
- Threats: Receiving threatening messages, phone calls, or emails.
- Stalking: Someone following you, watching you, or showing up at places uninvited.
- Spreading rumors: Sharing false stories or personal information about you without your permission.
- Any behaviour that makes you feel alarmed, distressed, or unsafe.
Harassment can happen anywhere—at work, in schools, online, or even in your own neighbourhood.
Legal Consequences
The law in the UK treats harassment very seriously:
- Immediate police help: The police can step in quickly and give warnings, issue restraining orders, or make arrests.
- Court action: Offenders can face fines, community service, or up to 6 months in prison for a first offence.
- Harsher penalties: More severe punishment is possible if there is a restraining order in place and it is broken, or if the harassment continues.
- Criminal record: A conviction for harassment can affect your life for years, making it harder to find work or travel.
What Should You Do?
No one should have to put up with harassment in silence. If you or someone you know is being harassed:
- Keep a record: Save any texts, emails, messages, or letters and write down every unwanted contact.
- Report it: Tell the police or a trusted support service as soon as possible.
International Lighthouse CIC can offer legal guidance and support.
