Young People at Risk of Stalking: What You Need to Know

Topic: Health

Around 1.4 million people in England and Wales experienced stalking in 2025. Young people may not recognize stalking when it comes from someone they know. New protections and awareness are being put in place.

In everyday life, we often joke about 'stalking' someone on social media or describe someone's behavior as a bit 'stalky.' But these casual uses of the word can blur the reality of stalking as a serious crime.

According to the Crime Survey for England and Wales, around 1.4 million people age 16 and older experienced stalking in the year ending March 2025. This is a significant number, but what's even more concerning is that young people might not recognize what stalking is, particularly when it comes from someone they know.

Stalking features in many domestic abuse cases, and it is often present in the lead-up to domestic homicide. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has reported record levels of stalking offenses being charged. This increase is partly due to better awareness of what stalking is.

The legal landscape around stalking is at a moment of change, with new protections, a review of how police respond to cases, and a stalking action plan underway within the CPS to enhance the identification of stalking cases.

Why It Matters

Stalking can happen anywhere, including in India. It's essential for young people to understand what stalking is and how to protect themselves.

Key Facts

• Around 1.4 million people in England and Wales experienced stalking in 2025.
• Young people may not recognize stalking when it comes from someone they know.
• New protections and awareness are being put in place to tackle stalking.
• Stalking features in many domestic abuse cases, and it is often present in the lead-up to domestic homicide.
• The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has reported record levels of stalking offenses being charged.

Key Terms

stalking

A serious crime where someone fixates on another person, causing fear or distress.

Implications

Stalking can happen anywhere, including in India. It's essential for young people to understand what stalking is and how to protect themselves.