Understanding Stalking and Harassment
Understanding Stalking and Harassment
Stalking and harassment are serious offences under UK law, with clear definitions and protections in place to support victims. Understanding what these behaviours involve is the first step towards recognising them and knowing when to seek help.
What is Stalking?
Stalking is a pattern of repeated, unwanted behaviour that causes you to feel distressed, scared, or threatened. Under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997, stalking is defined as a form of harassment involving persistent and unwanted attention. This can include following someone, repeatedly contacting them, watching or spying on them, or showing up uninvited at their home or workplace.
What is Harassment?
Harassment is any unwanted behaviour that causes alarm or distress. It does not have to involve a threat of violence. Harassment can take many forms, such as sending unwanted messages, making nuisance phone calls, spreading rumours, or persistently contacting someone in ways that make them feel uncomfortable or fearful.
Common Behaviours Considered Stalking or Harassment:
- Repeated phone calls, texts, emails, or social media messages
- Following someone or turning up unexpectedly
- Sending unwanted gifts or letters
- Monitoring someone’s movements or activities
- Damaging property or leaving threatening messages
- Spreading false information or rumours
Impact on Victims
Stalking and harassment can have a profound effect on victims’ lives. Many people experience anxiety, fear, loss of sleep, and difficulty going about their daily routines. The emotional and psychological impact can be long-lasting, affecting work, relationships, and overall wellbeing.
Legal Protections for Victims
UK law provides several protections for those experiencing stalking or harassment. Victims can apply for restraining orders, and the police have powers to intervene and arrest offenders. For a detailed explanation of the legal protections for stalking and harassment, including court orders and how to access them, visit our dedicated page.
Why Reporting Matters
Reporting stalking or harassment is important not only for your own safety but also to help prevent further harm to others. Taking action ensures that authorities can investigate and provide support, and it helps build a record of the offender’s behaviour. Early reporting can also make it easier to access legal protections and support services.
Understanding these behaviours and the law’s response is the first step towards protecting yourself and seeking help. If you believe you are experiencing stalking or harassment, it is important to know your rights and the options available to you.
When and How to Report Stalking or Harassment
When and How to Report Stalking or Harassment
If you are experiencing stalking or harassment, it is important to know when and how to report it to the police. Taking action early can help protect your safety and ensure the behaviour is properly investigated.
When Should You Report Stalking or Harassment?
You should consider reporting stalking or harassment as soon as you feel threatened, alarmed, or distressed by someone’s behaviour. Stalking and harassment are both criminal offences under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997. The law recognises that even if the behaviour seems minor at first, repeated unwanted contact or actions can quickly escalate and put you at risk.
Examples of when to report include:
- If someone repeatedly contacts you against your wishes, whether by phone, text, email, social media, or in person.
- If you feel scared, anxious, or unable to go about your daily life because of someone’s actions.
- If the behaviour includes threats, following you, showing up uninvited, or monitoring your activities.
- If the person’s actions have caused you emotional distress or fear for your safety.
You do not have to wait for the situation to get worse. The police take all reports of stalking and harassment seriously, whether or not there has been physical violence.
Steps to Take Before Making a Report
Before contacting the police, it can be helpful to gather evidence of the stalking or harassment. This will help the police understand the situation and build a stronger case. Consider the following steps:
- Keep a record: Write down each incident, including dates, times, locations, what happened, and how it made you feel.
- Save evidence: Keep copies of messages, emails, letters, or social media posts. Take screenshots where necessary.
- Photograph evidence: If there is physical evidence, such as unwanted gifts or damage to your property, take clear photographs.
- List witnesses: If anyone else has seen or heard the behaviour, make a note of their names and contact details.
Even if you do not have all this information, do not delay reporting if you are in immediate danger or feel unsafe.
How to Contact the Police
There are two main ways to contact the police, depending on the urgency of your situation:
- In an emergency: If you are in immediate danger or need urgent help, call 999. The police will respond as quickly as possible.
- Non-emergency: If the situation is not urgent but you want to report stalking or harassment, call 101 or visit your local police station. You can also report some incidents online through your local police force’s website.
When you contact the police, explain clearly that you believe you are a victim of stalking or harassment. Mention any threats, previous incidents, or concerns for your safety.
What to Expect When Making a Report
When you report stalking or harassment, the police will ask for detailed information about what has happened. Be prepared to:
- Describe the behaviour and how it has affected you.
- Provide any evidence you have collected, such as messages or a diary of incidents.
- Give details about the person responsible, if you know them.
- Share information about any witnesses.
The police may ask you to make a formal statement. They will assess the risk to your safety and may take immediate steps to protect you, such as issuing a warning to the perpetrator or applying for protective measures. Your report will be taken seriously and treated with sensitivity.
Remember, you have the right to be safe and to seek help. Reporting stalking or harassment is an important step towards stopping the unwanted behaviour and protecting yourself.
Gathering Evidence to Support Your Report
Gathering Evidence to Support Your Report
When reporting stalking or harassment, gathering strong evidence is crucial. The police rely on clear, detailed information to investigate your case and take action. Evidence can help show a pattern of behaviour, support your account, and increase the chances of legal protection under laws such as the Protection from Harassment Act 1997.
Types of Evidence You Can Collect
The following types of evidence are particularly helpful:
- Text messages, emails, and social media messages: Save any unwanted or threatening communications. Take screenshots and keep a record of dates and times.
- Phone call logs and voicemails: Make note of repeated or unwanted calls. Save voicemails, and write down the content and time of any threatening or harassing messages.
- Photographs and videos: If there are incidents where the perpetrator is present near your home, workplace, or in public, photos or videos can help show their actions. Make sure you capture images safely and legally.
- Written notes or letters: Keep any physical notes, letters, or gifts sent by the perpetrator.
- Diary or incident log: Record each incident in detail, including dates, times, locations, what happened, and how it made you feel. This helps show the ongoing nature of the harassment or stalking.
- Witness statements: If friends, family members, or colleagues have seen or heard incidents, ask them to write down what they observed.
- Evidence of damage or theft: Take photos of any property damage or stolen items linked to the harassment.
How to Collect and Store Evidence Safely
Your safety is the top priority. When collecting evidence:
- Avoid confronting the perpetrator: Never put yourself at risk to gather evidence.
- Keep digital copies: Back up messages, photos, and documents in a secure location, such as a password-protected folder or cloud storage.
- Store physical items securely: Keep letters, gifts, or written notes in a safe place, away from shared spaces.
- Update your incident log regularly: Write down incidents as soon as possible while details are fresh in your mind.
- Consider telling someone you trust: Let a friend or family member know what you’re experiencing and where you’re keeping your evidence.
If you are worried about your safety or think the perpetrator might discover your evidence, speak to the police or a support service for advice on how to protect yourself.
Why Evidence Matters
Evidence plays a key role in building a strong case. Under UK law, stalking and harassment are criminal offences, but the police need proof to take action, apply for protective orders, or bring charges. Evidence helps:
- Demonstrate a pattern: Many stalking and harassment cases involve repeated behaviour. Your records can show the ongoing nature of the abuse.
- Support your account: Concrete evidence makes your report more credible and helps the police understand the seriousness of your situation.
- Protect your rights: Strong evidence can support applications for restraining orders or injunctions, helping to keep you safe.
Remember, you do not have to gather all the evidence before contacting the police. Reporting early is important, and the police can advise you on further steps to take. Your safety and wellbeing are always the priority.
What Happens After You Report
When you report stalking or harassment to the police, they are required to take your concerns seriously and act to protect your safety. Here’s what you can expect after you make a report:
Police Response and Investigation
Once you contact the police, they will usually speak with you to gather as much information as possible about what has happened. This may include:
- Taking a detailed statement from you about the incidents.
- Collecting any evidence you have, such as messages, emails, photos, or records of unwanted contact.
- Speaking to any witnesses you may have identified.
- Assessing the level of risk to your safety and wellbeing.
Depending on the evidence and the seriousness of the situation, the police may decide to:
- Contact the person responsible and warn them about their behaviour.
- Interview or arrest the suspect if there is enough evidence of a crime.
- Carry out further investigations, which may include searching for CCTV footage or gathering digital evidence.
The police will keep you informed about the progress of the investigation and any actions they are taking.
Your Rights as a Victim
As a victim of stalking or harassment, you have specific rights under the Code of Practice for Victims of Crime (Victims’ Code). These include:
- The right to be treated with dignity and respect.
- The right to be kept informed about the investigation and any developments in your case.
- The right to ask for special measures if your case goes to court, such as giving evidence behind a screen or via video link.
- The right to make a Victim Personal Statement, explaining how the crime has affected you.
You can also ask for updates from the police at any time, and you have the right to be told if the suspect is released on bail or if any charges are brought.
Possible Outcomes
After the police investigate your report, several outcomes are possible:
- No Further Action: If there is not enough evidence, the police may decide not to take further action. They should explain their reasons to you.
- Warning or Caution: The police may issue a warning or a formal caution to the person responsible if the offence is minor and they admit what they have done.
- Arrest and Charge: If there is enough evidence, the police may arrest and charge the suspect. The case could then be passed to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to decide whether to take the case to court.
- Court Action: If the case goes to court, you may be asked to give evidence. The court can issue penalties such as fines, community orders, or prison sentences if the person is found guilty.
Legal Protections
If you are at risk of further harm, there are legal options available to help keep you safe. These include:
- Restraining Orders: The court can issue a restraining order to prevent the person from contacting you or coming near you, even if they are not convicted.
- Non-Molestation Orders: If the harassment is from someone you have a close relationship with (such as a partner or family member), you can apply for a non-molestation order under the Family Law Act 1996.
- Bail Conditions: If the suspect is released while the investigation continues, the police or courts can impose bail conditions to protect you.
The police can advise you on which protective measures are most suitable for your situation. If you feel unsafe at any point, let the police know immediately so they can review your protection and support needs.
Reporting stalking or harassment can feel daunting, but there are clear steps in place to help keep you safe and ensure your concerns are properly investigated. Remember, you have rights and support available throughout the process.
Legal Protections to Keep You Safe
Legal Protections to Keep You Safe
If you are experiencing stalking or harassment, there are several legal protections in the UK designed to help keep you safe. Understanding these options can empower you to take the right steps and feel more secure.
Stalking Protection Orders (SPO)
A Stalking Protection Order (SPO) is a court order designed to protect victims from stalking at an early stage, often before a criminal prosecution has taken place. The police can apply for an SPO on your behalf, and the order can place restrictions on the person stalking you – such as prohibiting them from contacting you, visiting your home or workplace, or even using certain forms of communication.
SPOs can also require the stalker to take positive steps, like attending treatment programmes. Breaching an SPO is a criminal offence and can result in arrest and imprisonment. To learn more about how these orders work and how they can help you, visit our page on Stalking Protection Orders (SPO).
Harassment Injunctions
Another important legal option is a harassment injunction. This is a type of civil court order that can prevent someone from harassing, threatening, or intimidating you. You can apply for a harassment injunction yourself, or with the support of a solicitor or support service. If the person ignores the injunction, they could be arrested and face penalties.
Harassment injunctions are available under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997, and can be tailored to your situation – such as banning the individual from certain areas or from contacting you by any means. For detailed guidance on applying for this type of protection, see our page on harassment injunctions.
Other Court Orders
Depending on your circumstances, other types of court orders may also be available to help keep you safe. These can include restraining orders, which are often issued following a criminal conviction for harassment or stalking, or non-molestation orders if there is a family relationship involved. Each order is designed to offer specific protections and can be enforced by the police.
If you are unsure which legal protection is most suitable for your situation, consider seeking advice from a legal professional or support organisation. Remember, these legal tools exist to help you feel safer and to prevent further harm.
Additional Support and Resources for Victims
Seeking help after experiencing stalking or harassment is not just about involving the police or pursuing legal action. Emotional, practical, and specialist support can be crucial to your recovery and ongoing safety. Many people find that connecting with professionals or support groups helps them feel less isolated and better equipped to cope with the effects of these crimes.
There are a range of abuse support services available across the UK. These services can offer confidential advice, emotional support, and help you plan for your safety. They may also assist with safety planning, connecting you with refuges, or offering advocacy if you need to engage with authorities.
If stalking or harassment has affected your ability to stay in your home or manage your finances, you may be able to access financial and housing assistance for victims. This support can include emergency accommodation, help with housing costs, or guidance on securing your property. It’s important to know that you do not have to face these challenges alone – specialist organisations can help you understand your options and access the help you need.
Harassment can happen in many contexts, including from neighbours or within your community. If you’re unsure about your harassment rights and options, it’s important to understand what the law says. The Protection from Harassment Act 1997 makes it illegal for anyone to pursue a course of conduct amounting to harassment, and this includes unwanted behaviour from neighbours or acquaintances. You have the right to seek protection and take action if you are being harassed, whatever the setting.
Harassment and stalking can also occur in the workplace. If you are experiencing unwanted attention or intimidation at work, you are protected under UK employment law. For guidance on what steps to take and how to get support, explore these workplace harassment resources. You’ll find information about your rights, reporting procedures, and how to access help through your employer or external agencies.
Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength. Whether you need emotional support, legal advice, or practical assistance, there are services and resources available to support you every step of the way.
