Stalking isn’t always domestic: Northamptonshire Police challenge misconceptions during awareness week

Northamptonshire Police are continuing to mark Stalking Awareness Week 2026 by shining a light on non‑domestic stalking – a crime that is often misunderstood, under‑reported and can affect anyone.

While stalking is commonly associated with former partners, many victims are stalked by someone they have never been in a relationship with. This may include acquaintances, colleagues, neighbours, or someone known only through social media or the community.

In some cases, victims of non‑domestic stalking can be targeted because of their professional role, public profile or online presence, rather than any personal or intimate relationship.

Non‑domestic stalking may involve:

• Someone repeatedly contacting or approaching a person they are fixated on
• Unwanted contact
• Unwanted gifts, messages or online contact
• Monitoring someone’s movements, workplace or social media
• Turning up uninvited at locations the victim regularly visits
• Using technology to track or harass someone

These behaviours can be deeply distressing and have a lasting impact on a victim’s sense of safety and wellbeing. It is vital to recognise that stalking does not always happen in a domestic context, as this misunderstanding can delay victims coming forward.

Detective Inspector Richard Cheshire, Northamptonshire Police’s stalking lead, said: “Stalking is a serious criminal offence, regardless of whether the offender is a former partner or someone the victim has never been in a relationship with.

“Non‑domestic stalking can be especially confusing for victims, who may feel unsure whether what they’re experiencing is ‘serious enough’ to report. If someone’s behaviour is making you feel frightened, distressed or unsafe, we want to hear from you.”

Northamptonshire Police work closely with partner agencies to support victims of stalking, including those targeted outside of domestic relationships. Officers can take action to investigate offences, gather evidence, and put safeguarding measures in place to protect victims at an early stage.

Police can also apply for Stalking Protection Orders (SPOs), which are designed to quickly restrict an offender’s behaviour and prevent further harm, even before a criminal case reaches court.

During Stalking Awareness Week, Northamptonshire Police are also highlighting Clare’s Law, which is predominantly used in domestic abuse cases but may be relevant where stalking behaviour is linked to controlling or coercive conduct by a current or former partner or family member.

Under Clare’s Law, individuals can ask the police whether a current or former partner has a history of abusive behaviour, or police can proactively disclose information if they believe someone is at risk.

Detective Chief Inspector, Beth Warren, added: “Stalking and domestic abuse are often closely linked. Stalking features in many domestic abuse cases, particularly after a relationship has ended. Clare’s Law can be a vital safeguarding tool, helping people make informed decisions about their safety when warning signs, including stalking behaviours, are present.

“Our message is simple - whether stalking is domestic or non‑domestic, it is never acceptable and support is available.”

Stalking Awareness Week is an opportunity to challenge misconceptions, encourage reporting, and reassure victims that they will be taken seriously.

How to report

Anyone experiencing stalking is encouraged to report it to Northamptonshire Police as early as possible. Keeping a record of incidents – such as dates, times, messages, screenshots or sightings – can help officers understand the pattern of behaviour.

• Call 999 in an emergency
• Call 101 or report online at www.northants.police.uk