Featured postsMost
Stalking isn’t just something that happens in films or crime documentaries. It’s a serious and often misunderstood issue that affects real people, every single day. Whether it’s unwanted phone calls, disturbing messages, following, or worse, stalkers can have a deep and lasting impact on someone’s mental health, safety, and sense of freedom.
If you’re reading this because you think you might be a victim, or you’re worried about someone close to you, you’re not alone. Thousands of stalking victims across the UK suffer in silence, unsure of what’s happening, or what to do about it. At Research Associates, we’ve worked with countless individuals to help them understand what’s going on, gather evidence, and regain control of their lives. In this post, we’ll walk you through what stalking really is, the different types of stalkers, the warning signs to watch for, and the support available to protect victims and bring them peace of mind.
Stalking is a criminal offence in the UK. Under the Harassment Act, stalking is defined as a course of conduct directed at a specific person that causes them serious alarm, substantial emotional distress, or fear for their safety.
To meet the legal definition, stalking must happen on at least two occasions and can involve a wide range of actions. This includes unwanted contact, following, unwanted gifts, verbal abuse, property damage, and even attempts to locate personal information through social networking sites or other internet users.
It can escalate quickly, sometimes leading to physical harm, sexual violence, or long-term post traumatic stress disorder. The risk posed by a stalker shouldn’t be underestimated, even if their behaviour seems subtle at first.
Not all stalkers are the same, and understanding the type of stalker involved can help determine the appropriate response. Here are the most common types seen in stalking cases:
This stalker is usually an ex-partner who can’t accept the end of a relationship. They swing between wanting reconciliation and revenge, often causing significant alarm and distress. They might turn up at your home or workplace, send constant messages, or try to involve your family members.
Motivated by a real or imagined grievance, the resentful stalker sees themselves as the victim. Their aim is to cause fear or substantial emotional distress, often through threats, verbal abuse, or constant surveillance.
These are intimacy seeking stalkers who believe there’s a special bond between them and the person they’re targeting, despite no relationship ever existing. They often leave unwanted gifts, write love letters, or try to create contact online or in person.
This is one of the most dangerous types. Predatory stalkers seek power and control and often link their actions to sexual gratification or fantasies of sexual assault. They usually plan their actions carefully and may follow or watch a person for long periods.
They’re often socially awkward and fail to understand personal boundaries. While their behaviour may appear less aggressive, it can still cause serious alarm and escalate if not addressed.
With social networking sites and online platforms, cyber stalking is now a major concern. These stalkers use the internet to harass, intimidate, or spy. They may contact you across multiple platforms, hack accounts, or distribute material relating to you without consent.
Stalking often starts small but grows over time. If you notice a specific person repeatedly appearing in your life or taking an unusual interest, trust your instincts.
Look for patterns such as someone:
It doesn’t have to be violent to be serious. If the behaviour is persistent and unwanted, and it causes you fear or distress, it’s likely stalking.
If stalking occurs, don’t dismiss it or try to handle it alone. Here’s what you can do:
Start by keeping a record. Write down dates, times, and descriptions of each incident. Save texts, emails, voicemails, anything that shows the course of conduct. This helps you build a clear picture of what’s happening, and it’s useful evidence if you need to report stalking.
Avoid responding or engaging with the stalker. Even telling them to stop can sometimes encourage more attention. Let trusted friends or family know what’s happening so you’re not facing it alone.
If you’re in immediate danger, call the police. Your person’s safety and well-being are the top priority. The police can issue a restraining order, arrest the alleged stalker, or advise you on protective steps.
You can also contact the National Stalking Helpline on 0808 802 0300. They offer free, confidential advice and can help you understand your rights, the law, and what support is available.
At Research Associates, we work discreetly and professionally with victims of stalking across the UK. Our experienced private investigators can help you in several ways, depending on your situation and the risk posed by the stalker’s actions.
We start with a detailed consultation to understand the behaviour and what kind of evidence you may already have. From there, we may conduct covert surveillance to gather proof of the stalker’s movements or activities. This can be critical if you’re looking to pursue legal action or simply need to understand the stalking behaviour more clearly.
We can also carry out background checks to help identify the stalker if you’re unsure who they are. In cyber stalking cases, we may be able to trace online accounts or investigate patterns of digital harassment.
Our team includes former police officers and professionals trained in criminal justice, meaning we know how to work with legal authorities if needed. We liaise with mental health professionals, legal experts, and, where appropriate, the police to make sure your case is handled with care, speed, and confidentiality.
If you feel like you’re being watched, harassed, or manipulated, don’t wait for things to escalate. The sooner you take action, the more we can do to help.
Aside from our services, there are several other organisations that offer help:
The National Stalking Helpline (0808 802 0300) is a free service run by the Suzy Lamplugh Trust. They offer advice on the law, safety planning, and emotional support.
The National Stalking Advocacy Service (Paladin) provides help for stalking victims, including risk assessments and support through the criminal justice process.
Victim Support offers counselling and advocacy for anyone affected by such behaviour, whether it’s recent or historical.
And of course, speak to your GP or a mental health professional if you’re experiencing substantial emotional distress, anxiety, or signs of post traumatic stress disorder as a result of stalking.
Stalking isn’t always obvious. It can be hidden behind smiles, digital messages, or even behaviour that others might dismiss as ‘harmless’. But if someone is making you feel unsafe, watched, or anxious, it’s time to take it seriously.
You don’t have to wait until physical violence or property damage occurs. If you feel uneasy or fearful, that’s reason enough to act. At Research Associates, we’re here to listen, guide, and support you every step of the way. Whether you’re looking to understand what’s happening, protect yourself and your loved ones, or build a case to stop the behaviour, we’re ready to help.
Reach out to us in complete confidence. Together, we can help you take back control of your life.
We will respond to your message as soon as possible.
Please refrain from using this form for advertising or seeking professional employment.
It is important to discuss the nature of your situation and agree, strategy, timeframe and cost before moving forward. If you are unable to call now on 020 7243 1000, use our contact form.
