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Stalking is not a form of attention, it is a form of abuse. When interest or attention crosses the line into unwanted, repeated actions, it becomes a serious crime that can take away your freedom.
What Is Stalking?
Stalking involves a pattern of unwanted, continous behaviour that causes someone fear, anxiety, or distress. It can include:
- Repeated, unwanted following or watching: Showing up where someone is, either physically or online.
- Turning up uninvited: Appearing at someone’s home, workplace, or places they often visit without their consent.
- Unwanted contact: Sending phone calls, texts, emails, social media messages, or gifts—whether online or in person.
- Monitoring or tracking: Checking someone’s social media excessively, using tracking devices, or trying to control what they do or where they go.
- Any actions that cause fear, anxiety, or distress: Even if not violent, if these actions make someone feel scared or unsafe, it is stalking.
Stalking can happen between strangers, acquaintances, former partners, or even within families.
Legal Consequences
Stalking is a criminal offence in the UK, and the law takes it very seriously:
- Immediate police involvement: Police will investigate every report of stalking and act swiftly to protect victims.
- Criminal charges: Offenders can be prosecuted under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997.
- Imprisonment: A first offence can result in up to 6 months in prison; if violence or threats are involved, sentences can reach up to 10 years.
- Restraining orders: Courts can issue orders to keep offenders away from victims.
- Permanent criminal record: Convictions can impact future jobs, international travel, and reputation.
There are absolutely no valid excuses for continued contact if someone has asked you to stop—persistence does not equal consent.
What Can Victims Do?
No one should face stalking alone. Here are important steps to take:
- Keep records: Save all unwanted texts, emails, messages, and document every incident of contact.
- Report it: Tell the police or support services as soon as you feel at risk—taking action early can help keep you safe.
