What should I do if I think someone is stalking me?
If you feel unsafe, don’t dismiss your feelings as paranoia. Your instincts can help guide you and prompt proactive safety actions.
If you think you are being stalked and feel unsafe, don’t dismiss your feelings as paranoia. Your instincts can help guide you and prompt proactive safety actions.
You can take immediate safety measures:
- if you feel threatened or at risk, you can call 999 immediately. If the incident occurs on campus, contact Campus Safety on +44 (0)1483 683333 to tell them that emergency services are on their way and to give details of your location
- share your location: keep a trusted friend or family member updated on your whereabouts and location in real time using phone apps like “Find My Friends” (iOS) or “Google Maps Location Sharing” (Android)
- vary your routine: avoid establishing patterns. Change routes to work or home, shop at different places, and avoid predictability
- stay in public, well-lit areas: whenever possible, avoid isolated areas, especially if you sense immediate danger
However, if an incident has occurred but you are not in immediate danger, there are other ways for you to receive the support and care you require. Those wishing to make a report can contact Campus Safety who can provide appropriate guidance. Alternatively, you can use the University of Surrey Students Union’s online Report + Support. You may choose to report anonymously.
We would also recommend that you keep a record of incidents with specific dates, times and locations that have caused you to feel unsafe and keep any related communications or documentation as this will be essential if you choose to report stalking to the police.
You can also enhance your own security by updating your social media settings to limit what you share publicly about your location or routine, consider an alarm app such as ‘bSafe’ or hollieguard’. You can also email the Student Union to request a personal attack alarm.
If what you have experienced is troubling or distressing you, or you feel you would benefit from mental health support, the Centre for Wellbeing offers free, confidential support, including access to counsellors and mental health practitioners.
Further information and support resources are available:
Suzy Lamplugh Trust - you can access the details for the National Stalking Helpline on this website.
Information on stalking and harassment (advice from the Police)
Reporting stalking and/or harassment (advice from the Police)