Launch of new online form to report stalking and harassment

Victims and witnesses are now able to report stalking and harassment to the police using a new online form.

Launched today (Tuesday 11 February) across Hertfordshire, the form can also be used by third parties such as friends or family to safely and securely report concerns. 

The form includes safeguarding measures to protect victims, including:

• Advice on how to delete web browsing history.
• The option of a downloadable copy of the report, rather than receiving an automatic copy by email.
• A unique receipt number displayed on screen, so the person has a reference number without it being directly attributable to a stalking and harassment report.

Refreshed, comprehensive guidance about stalking and harassment has been published alongside the form, including signs to look out for and what happens after a report has been made.

Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Gilbertson, Hertfordshire Constabulary’s lead for tackling violence against women and girls, said: “Stalking is an under-reported crime however it should never be dismissed as not serious as it can be very harmful to those experiencing it.

“The FOUR behaviours that define stalking – Fixated, Obsessive, Unwanted and Repeated behaviours – can also quickly escalate to violence, other abuse or even murder. And it is not just women who are victims – we have seen male victims suffer stalking and even cases where offences are perpetrated against family members.

“It is important to take stalking seriously and report concerns to police. This new online form provides a useful information as well as an additional way to report, but also remember if you think you’re not safe and in immediate danger, always call 999 first.”

People can also continue to report stalking and harassment by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency.

View the new stalking and harassment reporting form and guidance here