Street harassment is a common issue that many people—especially women and young girls—face in public spaces. It can happen anywhere: on the streets, in parks, at bus stops, or in shops. It includes behaviours such as catcalling, unwanted comments, following someone, or making sexual gestures. But one important question remains: is street harassment a crime in the UK?
This article explains what counts as street harassment, what the law says about it, what victims can do, and how the UK is working to make public spaces safer for everyone.
What is Street Harassment?
Street harassment refers to unwanted attention, comments, or actions directed at someone in public, usually based on their gender, appearance, or sexuality. It can make people feel unsafe, threatened, or humiliated.
Some common examples of street harassment include:
- Catcalling or whistling at someone passing by.
- Making sexual comments about someone’s body or clothes.
- Following or blocking someone’s path.
- Taking photos or videos of someone without their consent.
- Staring in a threatening or sexual way.
- Touching or brushing against someone intentionally.
While some people dismiss these acts as harmless or just “a joke,” they can cause serious emotional distress and fear.
Is Street Harassment a Crime in the UK?
The short answer is: Yes, it can be a crime—depending on what exactly happens.
There is no single law in the UK that directly uses the term “street harassment”. However, several existing laws make certain forms of harassment and abuse in public illegal. Depending on the behaviour, the following laws may apply:
1. Public Order Act 1986
This law in the UK makes it an offence to use threatening, abusive, or insulting words or behaviour that can cause someone to feel harassed, alarmed, or distressed.
For example, shouting sexual comments, swearing aggressively, or intimidating someone in public can fall under this Act.
2. Protection from Harassment Act 1997
This Act makes it illegal to pursue a course of conduct that amounts to harassment of another person.
If someone repeatedly follows, stalks, or intimidates you, they can be charged under this law. The offence can lead to fines or imprisonment, depending on how serious it is.
3. Sexual Offences Act 2003
Under this Act, sexual assault or sexual harassment involving physical contact—such as touching or groping—is a criminal offence. Even a single act of unwanted sexual contact can lead to criminal charges.
4. Voyeurism and Filming Without Consent
Taking someone’s photo or video without permission for sexual reasons, or filming up someone’s clothing (known as “upskirting”), is illegal under the Voyeurism (Offences) Act 2019.
Those found guilty can face up to two years in prison and may be placed on the sex offenders register.
5. Stalking Offences
If a person follows someone, sends unwanted messages, or repeatedly appears in places where the victim is, it may count as stalking.
Stalking is a criminal offence and can lead to serious penalties, including jail time.
The 2024 Update: New Law on Public Sexual Harassment
In 2024, the UK introduced a new law to specifically tackle public sexual harassment.
The Protection from Sex-Based Harassment in Public Act 2023 (which came into effect in 2024) makes it a criminal offence to intentionally harass someone in public because of their sex.
This means acts like catcalling, unwanted sexual advances, or making explicit comments in public are now legally recognised as crimes.
Those convicted could face up to two years in prison.
This law was passed after growing public pressure and campaigns led by organisations fighting for women’s safety, especially after high-profile cases like Sarah Everard’s murder, which sparked national discussions about women’s safety.
Why Street Harassment is Harmful
Some people believe that catcalling or commenting on someone’s looks is harmless flirting. But for the person on the receiving end, it often feels threatening and degrading.
Street harassment can cause:
- Anxiety and stress
- Fear of going out alone
- Loss of confidence in public
- Changes in behaviour (e.g., avoiding certain routes or dressing differently)
Over time, it contributes to a culture where people—especially women—feel unsafe simply for existing in public spaces.
What To Do If You Experience Street Harassment
If you are harassed in public, you have options. Here’s what you can do:
1. Trust Your Instincts
If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, that feeling is valid. Try to move to a safe place, such as a shop or a crowded area.
2. Report It
You can report street harassment to the police by calling 101 (for non-emergencies) or 999 if you’re in immediate danger.
If possible, note down details like the location, time, description of the harasser, and what was said or done.
3. Use Online Reporting Tools
Some police forces have online forms for reporting harassment anonymously. You can also use apps or community platforms that allow people to share reports of unsafe locations.
4. Seek Support
Charities such as Victim Support, End Violence Against Women Coalition, and Hollaback! The UK offer emotional support, advice, and resources for victims of harassment.
5. Speak Out
If you feel safe to do so, calmly telling the harasser that their behaviour is not acceptable can sometimes help. However, your safety should always come first.
The UK’s Approach to Reducing Street Harassment
The UK government and local councils have been taking steps to make public spaces safer:
- Increasing street lighting and CCTV in public areas.
- Introducing education campaigns about respect and consent.
- Encouraging bystanders to speak up when they witness harassment.
- Supporting organisations that help victims.
The goal is to create a culture where harassment is not tolerated and where victims feel supported to speak out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is street harassment illegal in the UK?
Yes. While the phrase “street harassment” isn’t a single offence, several existing laws make different forms of it illegal, such as the Public Order Act, Sexual Offences Act, and Protection from Harassment Act. The 2024 Sex-Based Harassment Law now directly criminalises public sexual harassment.
2. Can you go to jail for catcalling in the UK?
Yes, in serious cases. If the behaviour is threatening, sexually explicit, or makes someone feel unsafe, it can be prosecuted under harassment or public order laws. Under the 2024 law, public sexual harassment can lead to up to two years in prison.
3. What should I do if someone harasses me on the street?
Try to move to a safe place, avoid confrontation if possible, and report the incident to the police (call 999 in emergencies). You can also seek help from organisations that support harassment victims.
4. Is filming or photographing someone without consent illegal?
Yes, if it is done for sexual reasons or causes distress. “Upskirting” and voyeuristic filming are criminal offences under UK law.
5. What if the harassment happens on public transport?
Public transport is considered a public space. You can report harassment to the British Transport Police by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40.
6. Are there campaigns against street harassment in the UK?
Yes. Campaigns such as Our Streets Now and Plan International UK work to end public sexual harassment and raise awareness across schools, workplaces, and communities.
Final Thoughts
Street harassment is not “harmless fun”—it’s a serious issue that can deeply affect a person’s sense of safety and dignity.
The UK is taking significant steps to address it through stronger laws, awareness campaigns, and community action.
Thanks to the new legislation, public sexual harassment is now officially recognised as a crime, sending a clear message that such behaviour is unacceptable. Everyone has the right to walk freely and confidently in public without fear or intimidation.
