Stalking involves persistent, repeated and unwanted contact with someone which causes distress.
Stalking can vary in intensity and nature and can include:
- following someone or subjecting them to unwanted communication (texts, phone calls, emails and gifts)
- acts of vandalism or forced entry
- loitering, watching, and spying on someone in a way that causes alarm
A person engaged in stalking may use different resources to gather information:
- the internet
- personal record
- private detectives
- interrogating the family or friends of the victim
- taking photographs
Stalking can cause very serious harm and is a crime.
Young women aged between 16 and 25 years are at the highest risk of stalking. Over half of all stalkers are former intimate partners. These stalkers typically have a history of abuse and controlling behaviour.
There are specialist agencies who can help:
The National Stalking Helpline can be contacted on 0808 802 0300.
The Suzy Lamplugh Trust provides further information.
Police Scotland's online reporting form, along with information regarding stalking.
If you think you or your child(ren) are being stalked, phone the police on 999.
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To report any concerns to the police, call the non-emergency number 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.
