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We’re talking stalking – here’s what you need to know
This week is National Stalking Awareness Week (22nd – 26th April). We're here to help you understand what stalking is and how to stay safe. Stalking is a serious crime. It can make you feel scared and frightened to leave your home, but remember - you are not alone and there is help available. Stalking doesn't always involve threats. In reality, stalking can be a pattern of any unwanted contact that persists and makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe. Here's how to spot stalking – look out for the FOUR warning signs: Fixated (the stalker is obsessed with you) Obsessed (their behaviour goes beyond normal attention) Unwanted (you've made it clear you don't want contact) Repeated (it keeps happening). Sometimes stalking behaviours can seem small on their own. But when they’re combined into a pattern that follows FOUR: Fixated, Obsessed, Unwanted, Repeated. You should record it and report it to police before it escalates further. Many of us have been conditioned to see these behaviours as harmless or even desirable because of romantic comedies. But these behaviours are wrong and not acceptable. Watch our new romantic-comedy trailer, to see how these seemingly small gestures can escalate to something far more sinister. This unwanted attention can take many forms, such as: Showing up at your home or workplace uninvited Following you in public places Repeatedly calling, texting, or emailing you Sending unwanted gifts or messages Monitoring your social media activity Damaging your property and making threats It's important to remember that stalking can be directed at anyone, regardless of factors like age, gender, race, or sexual orientation. If someone's unwanted attention is making you feel uncomfortable, it's important to take steps to protect yourself. What to do if you’re being stalked If you believe you are being stalked, there are steps you can take: Document the behaviour: Keep a record of all unwanted contact, including dates, times, and details of what happened. Tell someone you trust: Talk to a friend, family member, colleague or a police officer about what is happening. Increase your safety: Consider changing your routines, varying your routes, and letting trusted people know where you are going and share your location. Speak to the police: If you are worried about your safety, report it to the police. You can call us on 101 or report using Live Chat on our website. In emergencies, always dial 999. The police can apply for a Stalking Protection Order (SPO) which is a civil order and protects victims of stalking. Remember, you are not alone. Stalking is a serious crime, and there are resources and support services available to help you stay safe. | ||||
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