Stalking

Stalking is a pattern of unwanted, fixated, and obsessive behaviour that causes fear or distress. Under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997, it is a criminal offence. Whether it involves repeated digital contact, physical following, or monitoring through technology, stalking is defined by being persistent and intrusive.

Non-intimate stalking refers to a pattern of fixated, obsessive, and unwanted behaviour directed at someone with whom the perpetrator has no prior intimate relationship, such as a stranger, acquaintance, or colleague. 

You have the right to feel safe; the police can apply for a Stalking Protection Order (SPO) even before a conviction, and breaching these orders is a serious crime. The SPO is processed by the police.

We understand how devastating stalking is and our specialist Independent Stalking Advocacy Caseworkers(ISAC) can help you to cope and recover. These are specialist advocates who are trained to understand the impact of stalking. They provide trauma‑informed, safety‑led support that is always centred around the people we work with. ISAC’s support victims of stalking to feel empowered to rebuild their lives and regain their safety and independence.

To talk to us in confidence and find out how we can help please use our live chat, call us on 0300 303 3706 or fill out a referral form.

Digital Tips

• Audit Your Apps: Check your smartphone settings and turn off “Location Sharing” or “GPS tracking” for all social media and camera apps.
• Secure Your Accounts: Change your passwords and enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) to prevent unauthorised logins to your email and socials.
• The “No Contact” Rule: Do not reply to any messages. Blocking is helpful, but any engagement—even a “leave me alone”—can reinforce a stalker’s behaviour.
• Check Shared Devices: Log out of shared accounts like iCloud, Google, or Netflix, which can be used to track your location or search history.
• Privacy First: Set all your social media profiles to “Private” and avoid sharing your daily routine or “checking in” to locations publicly.
• Use a Safe Device: If you suspect your phone or computer is being monitored with “spyware,” use a computer at a library or a friend’s house to seek help.

Actions to consider 

• Trust your instincts: If it feels wrong, it probably is.
• Do not engage: Avoid responding to or reasoning with the person.
• Update Privacy: Limit what you share online and secure your accounts.
• Keep Evidence: Save all messages, emails, and screenshots as a record of conduct.
• Access Support: Contact Norfolk & Suffolk Victim Care for specialist safety planning and advocacy.

Norfolk and Suffolk Victim Care can provide: 

• Emotional support to help you cope and recover from stalking
   
• Access to a trained Independent Stalking Advocacy Caseworker
   
• Advocacy with other agencies, including The Police
   
• Safety planning and support with accessing language interpreters and British Sign Language interpreters
   
• Sometimes, the best way we can support you is by helping you connect with another organisation that specialises in the type of help you need. When this happens, we’ll make sure it feels safe, respectful, and centred around your choices.