If you are worried that a friend, colleague, or someone close to you may be experiencing stalking, there are safe and supportive ways you can help them. You don’t need to have all the answers, simply listening and believing them can make a real difference.
Think
- Immediate safety: If the person is in immediate danger or has been seriously injured, call 999 (or 112 from a mobile).
- On campus, call Campus Safety on 01483 683333 once emergency services are on their way so they can assist.
- Safe space: If something has just happened, help them move somewhere they feel safe. If that’s not possible, encourage them to call Campus Safety.
Talk
- Listen and believe: Take time to listen without judgement. Let them share in their own words. Avoid minimising what they’re experiencing, stalking can feel frightening even if the behaviours seem “small” on their own.
- Offer options, not pressure: Once they’ve shared, ask if they’d like to hear about support or next steps. Respect their choices - they are the expert in their own situation.
Professional support can help: Stalking can be difficult and unsafe to manage alone. Having professional help may feel supportive, and ensures the person has access to the right safety advice and options.
- Sexual Violence Liaison Officers (SVLO): Students can access the Sexual Violence Liaison Officer service for confidential, trauma-informed support. SVLOs can help both survivors and people supporting someone else.
- Campus Safety: available 24/7 to talk through reporting options and safety planning.
- University of Surrey Students’ Union (USSU): can provide advice, support with processes, and attend meetings alongside students.
- Trade unions (for staff): Unison, Unite and UCU can provide support and representation.
Report
Report + Support: Staff and students can make a report using the University’s Report + Support system. You can report anonymously or request contact from a member of staff for support.
Report a Wellbeing Concern: If you are worried about a student’s safety or wellbeing, you can complete this form. It can be submitted by students, staff, friends or family.
Get support
- Specialist stalking services:
The National Stalking Helpline (0808 802 0300), Paladin (Independent Stalking Advocacy Service), and the Suzy Lamplugh Trust can provide tailored advice and support. These services can help with safety planning, evidence gathering, and specialist advocacy.
- University support:
- Sexual Violence Liaison Officers (SVLO): If you’re a student, the Sexual Violence Liaison Officer service can provide confidential, trauma-informed support. SVLOs can help you think through what feels right for you and support onward referrals if you want them.
- Centre for Wellbeing: Offers confidential emotional support and counselling for students.
- University of Surrey Students’ Union (USSU): A free, impartial service for students who want advice, support with processes, or representation.
- For staff: Occupational Health, HR, and the Employee Assistance Programme (BHSF RISE) can provide confidential advice and support.
Taking care of yourself: Supporting someone through stalking can be emotionally draining. It’s okay to seek support for yourself too, even if you are not the direct target. Looking after your own wellbeing helps you to be there for them in a sustainable way.