A recently released map uncovers regions with the highest reported cases of stalking incidents, allowing individuals to track occurrences in their vicinity. Police data from England and Wales show a staggering 4,600% surge in stalking offenses last year, totaling over 135,000 incidents compared to under 3,000 a decade ago, as per analysis by the Lib-Dems using House of Commons Library figures.
Every region in England and Wales witnessed a notable increase in stalking cases, with major forces like the Metropolitan Police logging 11,798 incidents last year, a substantial leap from 647 a decade earlier. Similarly, Greater Manchester Police observed a surge from 96 to 10,649 cases during the same period.
During Stalking Awareness Week, campaigners from the Suzy Lamplugh Trust cautioned that stalking offenses are often disregarded, despite well-documented connections to homicides and suicides.
Blackpool tops the list for stalking incidents, recording 1,016 cases last year, translating to a rate of 7.2 crimes per 1,000 residents. Using crime rates calculated by dividing the number of offenses by population size helps provide a fair comparison across regions.
Following Blackpool, Gloucester, Hyndburn in Lancashire, Wakefield in West Yorkshire, and Blaenau Gwent in Wales reported the highest stalking rates per 1,000 residents. The Mirror has reached out to Lancashire Police for input.
While both genders are victims of stalking, government data indicates that nearly three-quarters of victims are women. Research shows that over 90% of victims suffer psychological repercussions post-stalking incidents.
Stalking prevalence varies across the country, with Leeds reporting the highest stalking incidents in the year ending September 2025, followed by Birmingham, Bradford, and Manchester.
A recent report by the Suzy Lamplugh Trust highlights how stalking behaviors are often overlooked, potentially leading to tragic outcomes like homicides and suicides. The Trust advocates for the establishment of a stalking-related death review process to glean insights from such incidents and prevent future tragedies.
Professor Jane Monckton Smith OBE’s research illustrates the role of stalking in a “homicide timeline,” with stalking behaviors present in 94% of criminal femicide cases studied. The Trust urges the government to take proactive measures to address stalking-related risks and enhance victim protection.
Dr. Monckton-Smith emphasizes the importance of recognizing early warning signs to prevent harm and loss of life resulting from stalking incidents. The Suzy Lamplugh Trust calls for systemic changes to prioritize addressing stalking behaviors effectively.
Stalking incidents must be diligently documented to understand their contribution to fatal outcomes like homicides and suicides. Despite the potential for stalking to escalate into severe harm, it remains underestimated across various public entities and agencies, necessitating urgent attention and action.