The theme this year is ‘Standing Against Stalking: Supporting Young People’.
The National Stalking Helpline report that an increasing number of 16 to 24 year olds are contacting their helpline to seek support on how to deal with unwanted behaviours.
Stalking
Stalking is defined as 'A pattern of fixated and obsessive behaviour which is repeated, persistent, intrusive and causes fear of violence or causes alarm and distress in the victim.’
Stalking can consist of any type of behaviour such as regularly sending flowers or gifts, making unwanted or malicious communication, damaging property and physical or sexual assault. If the behaviour is persistent and clearly unwanted, causing you fear, distress or anxiety then it is stalking, and you should not have to live with it.
What to do?
Stalking is a crime. If you are being stalked, or think you may be being stalked, or you’re worried about someone's obsessive or controlling behaviour call 101 to contact the police. In an emergency call 999.
Get Help
• The Suzy Lamplugh Trust's National Stalking Helpline: 0808 802 0300. They are open weekdays between 09:30 and 16:00, except Wednesdays when they open at 13:00.
• Paladin’s National Stalking Advocacy Service also provides support, advice and advocacy to victims of stalking. Paladin have a specialist young person’s ISAC (Independent Stalking Advocate) who can talk to you about this. Paladin may be contacted directly on 0203 866 4107, or contacted by email
• Live Fear Free helpline is a free, 24/7 service for all victims and survivors of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence and those close to them, including family, friends and colleagues. Live Fear Free can be contacted as follows.
Call: 0808 80 10 800
Text: 0786 007 7333
Email: info@livefearfreehelpline.wales
Live chat: gov.wales/livefearfree
• Stalking is always distressing, and another option available in Wales is 111-option-2, for NHS mental health services.
Cyberstalking
Cyberstalking is an extension of 'offline' stalking and can take the form of emails or messages posted on social networking sites.
Unsure if you are a victim of stalking?
Consider the widely used acronym FOUR. Is the behaviour Fixated, Obsessive, Unwanted and Repeated?
If what's happening in your life has left you feeling scared or uncomfortable, it might be time to speak to someone and get advice. If you are experiencing stalking, please do not suffer in silence.
Further Resources
Alice Ruggles Trust - Stalking video – English
Alice Ruggles Trust - Stalking video – Welsh