Stalking is a pattern of unwanted, fixated, and obsessive behaviour that happens on two or more occasions and causes you to feel distressed, scared, or threatened. It can be carried out by someone you know such as an ex-partner, acquaintance, or colleague or by a stranger. For more information and support, visit Paladin and the National Stalking Helpline .
Stalking is a criminal offence in the UK.
It often includes repeated or intrusive behaviours, such as:
- Following or watching you
- Repeated unwanted contact
- Sending gifts, or messages you haven't asked for
- Damaging your property
- Showing up at your home, university or workplace
- Threats (either direct or indirect)
- Contacting other people close to you, such as your friends, family, or employer.
Even if individual actions seem minor or non-threatening on their own, it's the pattern of repeated, unwanted behaviour that defines stalking.
Stalking does not need to happen in person, it can also occur online or through technology. This is known as “Cyberstalking”. It may include:
- Repeated, unwanted messages via email, text, or social media
- Hacking or attempting to access your online accounts
- Using tracking software or GPS to monitor your location
- Creating fake profiles to harass, impersonate, or monitor you
- Sharing (or threatening to share) private or intimate images
- Spreading false information about you online
Cyberstalking can feel invasive, isolating, and relentless and it often goes hand-in-hand with offline stalking.
Whether online or in-person, stalking is never your fault, and support is available.
In an emergency:
- Call 999 if you are in immediate danger or being followed.
- If you can’t speak, press 55 when prompted for silent assistance.
- If you are on campus then you should report it to the university in the first instance and they will call the emergency services if necessary
- Docklands campus contact Security in the East Building, either in person or by calling 0208 223 5599
- Stratford campus contact Security in the CC Building, either in person or by calling 0208 223 4073
- USS campus contact Security by the Reception desk either in person or by calling 0208 223 7888
If it’s not an emergency:
- Report concerns to the Police non-emergency number: 101
- Speak to a support organisation linked below
- Keep a record of incidents (times, dates, screenshots, messages, etc.) as this can be useful if you choose to report
You can find links to UEL and external support services here.