Stalking
Stalking can happen to anyone. A stalker can be a former spouse, boyfriend or girlfriend, an acquaintance, work colleague, or a stranger.
Stalking can be defined as persistent and unwanted attention that makes you feel pestered and harassed. It includes behaviour that happens two or more times, directed at or towards you by another person, which causes you to feel alarmed or distressed or to fear violence might be used against you. What makes the problem particularly hard to cope with is that it can go on for a long period of time, making you feel constantly anxious and afraid. Sometimes the problem can build up slowly and it can take a while for you to realise you are caught up in an ongoing campaign of abuse.
Social media and the internet are often used for stalking, and ‘cyber-stalking’ or online threats can be just as intimidating. If you’ve been affected by cyber-stalking, you can get more information and safety tips from Get Safe Online.
If you’re experiencing persistent and unwanted attention, and the behaviour is making you feel fearful, harassed or anxious, it’s not something you should have to live with, and we’re here to help you.
If you have experienced or are currently experiencing stalking, there is no right or wrong way to feel or be. What has happened is not your fault and you’re not alone. Your safety and wellbeing are the most important things right now and you can access specialist support, if and whenever you feel ready.
UNIVERSITY SUPPORT
- A Wellbeing Advisor will discuss your options with you and will be able to offer appropriate practical and emotional support tailored to your circumstances. This is confidential and does not instigate any kind of formal reporting process. You can get in touch anytime by emailing wellbeing@ua92.ac.uk.
- Spectrum Life is our 24/7 student support platform; details of how to access here.
EXTERNAL SUPPORT
National Stalking Helpline
0808 802 0300Gives practical information, support, and advice on risk, safety planning and legislation to victims of stalking, their friends and family.
Suzy Lamplugh Trust
Provides help and advice to victims of stalking, as well as building awareness, training and working towards systemic change.
Paladin
Provides trauma informed support, advice and advocacy to victims of stalking and works to raise awareness of dangers and risks of stalking.
REPORTING OPTIONS
It’s your choice. It’s completely up to you whether or not to report what’s happened. No-one else can or should make that choice for you.
- Police: In an emergency or if you are in immediate danger, you should dial 999. Otherwise, you can call 101 or visit your local police station to report a crime. Reporting is a big decision and all the support services linked to above can support you with this, if you decide to make a police report.
- UA92: If the perpetrator is a member of the University community, you will have the option of submitting a formal report. The first step to making a formal report is to submit a report form.