This advice is embedded in the wider advocacy work we do to address the root causes of violence and aggression across society. Read more about our campaigning for better provisions for victims of stalking here, here and here. 

Tips and Advice 

• If you feel in immediate danger call the police on 999.  
• As long as you feel comfortable we recommend  that you do not engage with your stalker in any way unless you feel comfortable to do so. 
• Talk to family, friends, neighbours, colleagues, or your manager about the harassment if you feel comfortable doing so. They may be able to help by collecting further evidence on your behalf or by putting protective measures in place.
• Be aware of how much of your personal information is in the public domain and take steps to protect your data. This could include sharing your live location or your home address details.  
• Above everything, trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right then do call the National Stalking Helpline. 

Physical Stalking

• Consider carrying a personal alarm. This could be used if you feel unsafe in public spaces and will let members of the public know that you may need assistance.  
• Consider using a personal safety app on your phone such as Hollie guard app. You can find more information here.
• Vary your daily routine and take different routes to and from work. If somebody knows your usual routines this can help keep you safe. 
• Know where the nearest safe location is, for instance a police station. But, if there isn't one nearby, you could use a 24 hour supermarket with security guards and CCTV.
• Talk to the police about using CCTV and/or installing a panic button at your home. 
• Consider installing an alarm system.
• Ensure all your doors and windows are locked before you leave home or go to sleep. 
• Consider a “buddy system” where you check in with a friend of family member when you go out and about and you may consider sharing your live location with them. 

Cyber Safety

• Get your computer checked for malware and key logging software. If you think you devices have been hacked. 
• Change your passwords frequently and don't use the same password for everything.
• Limit the amount of information you share about yourself on social networking site and check your privacy settings to ensure you are not giving away more information about yourself than you intend to.
• Keep your anti-virus software up-to-date.
• Report any stalking activity on websites to the administrators. If they won't act, contact the web hosting company. 
• Contact the Cyber Helpline for more information

Stalking in the Workplace

Stalking can take place in many forms in the workplace. Some stalkers are colleagues or clients of the victim, others are individuals who are unrelated to the workplace but who make contact with the victim at work because of ease of access or to cause them further distress.

Stalking behaviour can include:

• Telephone calls to your work phone or to your work place asking/talking about you 
• Following you to and from your place of work  
• Making false complaints to employers
• Monitoring or spying
• Hacking
• Visiting place of work

Suzy Lamplugh Trust's Stalking in the Workplace Guide offers advice to help employees and employers manage the risk of stalking, plus advice on setting up a Workplace Stalking Policy. Download it here.

National Stalking Helpline

If you're being stalked, the National Stalking Helpline can offer free help and advice.

Contact Us via phone or form

Resources

Suzy Lamplugh Trust have a number of posters and leaflets that are free to download:

Put a Stop to Stalking

National Stalking Helpline Leaflet

Stalking at Work Advice Poster