London Stalking Support Service

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Reporting Stalking to the Police

Reporting stalking can feel overwhelming. This page explains how to report, what information may help, what can happen next and what you can do if you are waiting for an update.

Stalking and the law

Stalking is a criminal offence in England and Wales. The law recognises stalking where there has been a course of conduct, which means two or more incidents of unwanted behaviour.

Stalking and criminal law

Stalking is illegal under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997. Amendments introduced by the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 created two specific stalking offences.

Section 2A recognises stalking as a criminal offence in England and Wales.

Section 4A applies where stalking causes fear of violence or serious alarm or distress that has a substantial adverse effect on someone’s day-to-day life.

Stalking and civil law

If you are experiencing stalking, there may be civil legal options that can help protect you.

Stalking Protection Orders can place restrictions on someone’s behaviour and can be used before a criminal conviction.

Non-Molestation Orders may help protect you from harassment, intimidation, threats or abuse by someone you are personally connected to.

Occupation Orders can be used alongside a Non-Molestation Order and can decide who can live in, return to, or enter a shared home.

1

Before you report

Preparing can help you feel more confident and make sure important information is not missed.

Incident timeline

Risk indicators

Safety concerns

Pattern of behaviour

Evidence collection

Stalker information

Download the police reporting checklist

Use this checklist to gather key information such as incident dates, evidence, risk indicators and safety concerns.

Download guide
2

Make the report

There are different ways you can report stalking.

Call 999 if in immediate danger

Call 101 for non-emergency assistance

Report online through your local police force

Report in person at a police station

Download: What happens when you report to the police?

This guide explains reporting routes, what officers may ask, and what may happen after your report.

Download guide
3

What happens next?

Every case is different, but these are some general steps that may happen.

Police interview

Risk assessment

Evidence collection

Possible police action

See also: What happens when you report to the police?

Read more about risk assessment, evidence collection, possible police action and what can happen if stalking continues.

Download guide
4

Know your rights under the Victims’ Code

The Victims’ Code explains the rights you can expect as a victim of crime, including being given information about the criminal justice process and the support available to you.

You should be kept informed

You can ask for support

You can raise concerns

Read more about the Victims’ Code on Victim Support’s website.

5

The police are saying I don’t have enough evidence

Keep reporting to help keep yourself safe. A pattern of unwanted contact over time can be important.

Report all incidents of unwanted contact to 101

Keep an incident log and log any additional evidence

Remember it is primarily the police responsibility to investigate and gather evidence

Download the police troubleshooting guide

Use this if the police say there is not enough evidence, your case is moving slowly, or you are unsure what to do next.

Download guide

While you’re waiting

If you have reported stalking and are waiting for an update, it is normal to feel anxious, frustrated or uncertain.

Here’s what you can do while you wait:

Continue reporting incidents

Review your safety plan

Reach out to trusted friends and family

Speak to your GP if your well-being is being affected

Troubleshooting

You are not alone. These resources can help you navigate challenges.

They aren’t taking me seriously

If you feel dismissed or not listened to, you may want to ask for the incident to be reviewed, request to speak to another officer, or seek advice from the helpline.

I don’t seem to have enough evidence

Keep recording incidents, dates, times and any evidence you have. A pattern of behaviour can be important.

The case is moving too slowly

Ask for an update and keep a record of who you spoke to and when. You can also seek advice if delays are affecting your safety or wellbeing.

I’m scared reporting will make it worse

Your safety matters. If you are worried about escalation, consider speaking to the helpline about safety planning and reporting options.

I feel overwhelmed and exhausted

It is understandable to feel this way. Speak to someone you trust, contact your GP if your wellbeing is affected, and reach out for support.

Still have questions about stalking?

Download the FAQs guide for general information about stalking, documenting incidents, online safety, legal options and wellbeing.

Download guide

You are not alone.

We believe you, we are here for you, and we will help you find the support you need.