DISCLAIMER: The Suzy Lamplugh Trust would like to clarify that general personal safety advice provided on our web pages is in no way intended to suggest that taking such actions will eliminate incidents of aggression and violence. The guidance merely helps readers better understand how to assess and mitigate risks to their personal safety. The information listed may therefore be used as the preliminary steps one can take to either conduct risk planning, where it is possible in specific contexts, or alert others if they feel unsafe. This advice is also embedded in the wider advocacy work we do to address the root causes of violence and aggression across society.

 

Taxis and Minicabs

• Share information about your journey and the vehicle you’re using with someone you trust
• Ask the driver to show you their badge before you start your journey  
• Find out which licensed taxis and private hire vehicles operate in your area and plan your journey in advance  
• Examine the taxi or minicab before you get in – is a licence displayed on the vehicle? Does the vehicle look roadworthy?  
• Trust your instincts – if you feel worried or threatened, ask the driver to stop in a busy area so you can get out 
• You can report any concerns about taxis or private hire vehicles to the police and your local licensing authority 

Public Transport 

• Know where you are going and which stop you need. 
• Check departure times, especially of last buses or trains. 
• Try and have your ticket, pass or change ready in your hand so your purse or wallet is out of sight. 
• If travelling at night or in an unfamiliar area, try and arrange for someone to meet you at the bus stop or train station. Otherwise try to walk near other people with whom you feel safe 
• Wait for a bus or train in a well-lit place near other people whenever possible. 
• Try not to keep all your valuables in one place. It’s a good idea to keep valuables such as wallets in an inside pocket and separate small amount of cash or a bankcard from your main purse/wallet. 
• If a bus is empty or it is after dark, it may be safer to stay on the lower deck and sit near the driver. 
• On trains avoid compartments which have no access to corridors or other parts of the train. Try to sit with other people and avoid empty carriages. 
• If you feel uneasy, move to another seat or carriage. If you feel threatened, make as much noise as possible to attract the attention of the driver or guard. 
• British Transport Police non-emergency text number is 61016 for reporting any incidents. 

Cycling

• Keep your bike in good working order. Repairs are best done at home rather than on the road. 
• Consider wearing high visibility clothing 
• Never cycle anywhere you would not be comfortable walking.