It is hard to give an exact definition of stalking because stalkers will often use multiple and differing methods to harass their victims. Stalking can consist of any type of behaviour such as regularly sending flowers or gifts, making unwanted or malicious communication, damaging property and physical or sexual assault. If the behaviour is persistent and clearly unwanted causing you fear, harassment or anxiety then it is stalking and you should not have to live with it.

Did you know? Approximately 1.2 million women and 900,000 men are victims of harassment in the UK.

Below are some of the FAQ's from the National Stalking Helpline Website

Can stalking only be done by a stranger?

When many people hear the word stalking they still think of a stranger lurking in the shadows or a delusional fan following a celebrity. Whilst these cover some stalking scenarios they are by no means the majority. About 50% of stalkers are ex-intimates (i.e. ex partners) and a further third have had some sort of prior acquaintance with their victim; you may have dated, married or been a friend with your stalker. Just because you know/knew the stalker does not mean that the situation is your fault - it is still stalking and it is wrong.

Am I overreacting?

No. If you feel scared, worried or angered by the behaviour then you should not have to put up with it. Some people may lack the knowledge or understanding of how stalking can negatively impact on every aspect of your life, however that does not mean that you are overreacting – only that we have a long way to go in raising awareness about the seriousness of stalking.

Who can be a victim of stalking?

Anyone can become a victim of stalking. A report produced by Dr. Lorraine Sheridan and Network for Surviving Stalking, in which 2,292 victims of stalking were surveyed, found that victims’ ages ranged from 10 to 73, they were male and female, were spread across the entire socio-economic spectrum and a large proportion (38%) were professionals. Dr. Sheridan concludes that virtually anyone can become a victim of stalking and the only way to avoid doing so would be to avoid the social world.

How long does stalking last?

There is no definite answer to this question. Dr. Lorraine Sheridan’s report (see above) found that stalking could last anywhere from 1 month to 43 years. The average length of time was found to be between 6 months and 2 years. Dr. Sheridan also found that the duration of stalking tends to increase as the stalker’s emotional investment in the relationship increases. This is one of the reasons ex-intimate stalking is often considered to be the most dangerous.

Can stalking without violence still be damaging?

Yes. The absence of violence in a stalking case doesn’t mean the victim is unaffected. Stalking can cause severe psychological distress to a victim. Depression, anxiety, sleep disturbance, paranoia, agoraphobia and post-traumatic stress disorder are all common side effects of stalking.

What key information would you give to stalking victims?
Trust your instincts, if someone is making you feel scared or intimidated do not ignore these feelings and do not let it carry on, research indicates early intervention in a stalking case can stop it. After you have told your stalker once clearly and firmly that you no longer wish to have any contact with them never engage or meet them again, even if it is to tell them to leave you alone.

What can I do if:

(These are links to websites and articles giving advice and information on the following)

• I am receiving nuisance or malicious calls
  
• I am receiving nuisance or malicious electronic communication
  
• I am receiving unwanted and/or unpleasant things in the post
  
• I am being followed

How can I get further advice or information?

• You can call the National Stalking Helpline for further advice and information on 0300 636 0300, or e-mail us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
• You can also visit www.nss.org.uk (Network for Surviving Stalking) , www.protectionagainststalking.org (Protection against stalking), and www.suzylamplugh.org (the Suzy Lamplugh Trust)  for tips and information.
• If you are ever in immediate danger call 999

Disclaimer

The advice from this website (and the websites linked to here) is meant for information purposes only and you should not rely on any advice it contains or take any action in reliance on it without first making your own assessment of it, if necessary with the aid of professional advice.