Advice & Guidance
CRIME TYPE: SARS-17
Stalking
Stalking is a serious crime involving a repeated, unwanted course of conduct that causes someone to feel scared, distressed or threatened. It is covered by the Protection from Harassment Act 1997 (as amended) and often involves a fixation or obsession with the victim.
01
Examples of behaviour
- Following a person.
- Contacting by any means — phone, email, social media, letters.
- Publishing material relating to the victim.
- Monitoring internet/email use (cyberstalking).
- Loitering, watching or spying; going uninvited to a home.
- Interfering with property; identity theft; damaging reputation.
02
Legal offences & penalties
- Stalking (s.2A) — up to 6 months’ imprisonment / fine; 2 years if racially/religiously aggravated.
- Stalking involving fear of violence or serious alarm/distress (s.4A) — up to 10 years; 14 years if aggravated.
03
What to do
- 999 in an emergency; 101 for non-emergencies.
- Keep a record of every incident — dates, times, details.
- Save evidence: messages, emails, social media interactions, letters/parcels.
- Tell trusted friends, family, your doctor, and your employer.
- Make social media private; limit personal information shared.
- Consider home security measures.
04
Legal protections
- Restraining Orders — breaching one is a criminal offence.
- Stalking Protection Orders (SPOs, 2020) — police can apply before a conviction; breach is a criminal offence.
Report & Support
Want advice or guidance in person? Book an appointment at hello@sarscymru.org.uk.
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