Policing.uk

Protection from Harassment Act 1997

  • 1997
  • Primary

The Act that created the criminal offences of harassment and stalking and provided civil remedies including the restraining order. It has been extended over time to include a range of conduct including putting persons in fear of violence, stalking, and cyber-harassment. The criminal offences under the Act are used in domestic abuse cases, stalking cases, and cases involving persistent intimidation.

Last updated 24 September 2026