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.

 

Safety for Students 

University can mean a new city and environment, which is exciting! Enjoy your new surroundings safely by following these top tips:

Accommodation 

• When choosing where to stay, make sure that it’s secure and that the area feels safe. It’s a good idea to  see what it is like at night as well as during the day. 
• Make sure you meet all your prospective flat mates and  trust your instincts  when deciding whether or not to move in.
• When you leave your room in halls, always lock the door and shut the window, even if you are only popping next door for a minute.
• Consider the risks before inviting someone you’ve just met into your room.
• Don’t let anyone into your block by holding a door open unless you know them or have checked their ID.
• If you see anything suspicious, report it to your campus security or police. 

Going out at night 

• Try to plan ahead. Make sure someone knows where you are going, who you are meeting and when you expect to return.  
• Always plan how you are going to get home again. 
• Don’t leave your drink unattended, and if you start to feel unwell seek assistance from venue staff. 
• When out with friends, look out for each other and consider travelling back together, or “checking in” when you each arrive home safely. 

Safety when out and about 

• Stay alert and aware of your surroundings. 
• Avoid chatting on your mobile phone or listening to music on your headphones, as this can distract you from your surroundings or any potential danger signs. 
• Think about getting a personal safety alarm. Keep it in an easily accessible place and carry it in your hand if you feel at risk. It can be used to momentarily distract an attacker giving you vital seconds to escape. 
• If you are out at night, try to stick to busy streets and near other people. Avoid danger spots such as poorly-lit areas, deserted parks, or quiet alleyways . 
• Ask if there are any areas near your halls that should be avoided. Some short-cuts may be great during the day but have a reputation amongst other students for being unsafe at night. 
• If you see someone else in trouble, think twice before trying to help. This may just aggravate the problem and you could end up hurt as well. It may be a lot more helpful to shout for help, call the police or generally make a lot of noise to attract attention. 

Travel by taxi 

• 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 

Travel by public transport 

• Where possible wait in a well-lit, busy area. 
• Don’t be afraid of moving should someone’s behaviour cause you concern. 
• Trust your instinct. 
• Call British transport police on 61016 to seek assistance or report incidents on the rail network